Brantford Approves Sports Centre, Signs 15-Year Lease with Bulldogs, Extendable to 40 Years

BRANTFORD, ON: At a Special Council meeting held December 4, 2025, Brantford City Council officially approved the design and construction of the City’s new Sports and Entertainment Centre (SEC), marking a transformational investment in Brantford’s future and downtown revitalization. Yesterday, the City and the Brantford Bulldogs finalized and formally signed a landmark 15-year lease with five renewal options, extending up to 40 years, solidifying the team’s long-term presence in Brantford and anchoring the new facility as its permanent home.

The new SEC will be a state-of-the-art venue with seating for 5,235 spectators. It will be designed to host Ontario Hockey League hockey, concerts, family shows, community celebrations, trade shows, and a wide variety of major events. Positioned prominently on Market Street with a new civic plaza that links it to the existing Civic Centre, the facility will become a key focal point for public gatherings and a powerful new anchor for the ongoing renewal of the downtown.

Independent analysis conducted for the City confirms that the Sports and Entertainment Centre will provide substantial economic benefits during both construction and future operations. Construction activity alone is projected to generate approximately $261 million dollars in economic impact, create 1,260 full time jobs, contribute $90 million dollars in employment income, and produce nearly $25 million dollars in federal and provincial tax revenues. 

Once the facility is in operation, it is expected to continue producing major economic activity each year. Annual operations will drive an estimated $13.2 million dollars in local spending, support 95 full time equivalent jobs, and contribute $7.6 million dollars to the economy. Over a period of ten years, the combined economic impact is projected to reach more than $145 million dollars in spending and more than $83 million dollars in contributions to the economy. 

The $152 million project will be funded through dedicated revenue sources tied to the facility, including a $140 million municipal debenture supported by a reserve fund. This reserve will draw from the municipal accommodation tax, casino revenue reallocation, property sales, naming rights, sponsorships, operator contributions, fundraising, and increased commercial property taxes from downtown development.

“This is a defining moment for Brantford," said Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis. "Council’s approval of the Sports and Entertainment Centre and the official signing of an up to 40-year lease with the Brantford Bulldogs secures a long-term partnership that will strengthen our community and fuel our downtown’s renewal. This project is a generational investment, and the Bulldogs’ commitment affirms Brantford as their permanent home. Importantly, we’re bringing this vision to life with a practical and sustainable funding model.”

“We couldn’t be more excited for a new sports and entertainment complex in Brantford,” said Brantford Bulldogs General Manager Spencer Hyman. “This city is home, the place the Bulldogs belong, and where we’ll call home forever. None of this would be possible without the vision and leadership of Mayor Kevin Davis, and we’re incredibly grateful for his commitment to our community and our team.”

Construction of the Sports and Entertainment Centre is expected to begin in early 2026, with completion targeted for early 2028. As the project moves forward, the City will launch a comprehensive fundraising and sponsorship campaign and will continue refining design details with input from stakeholders and the community.

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Media Contact: 

Maria Visocchi Director, Communications, Community Engagement and Customer Service
City of Brantford | Office: 519.759.4150 Ext. 5754 | mvisocchi@brantford.ca

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