City of Edmonton. Sport and Recreation Field Tournament Sites Needs Assessment

Transcription

1 City of Edmonton Sport and Recreation Field Tournament Sites Needs Assessment Presented to: City of Edmonton by: January 24, 2002

2 Prepared by: Tim Berrett (Ph.D.) Caminata Consulting th Street Edmonton, Alberta T5M 0P4 Date: January 24, 2002

3 Table of Contents Page Acknowledgements 2 Executive Summary 3 Introduction 6 Objectives and Scope 7 Background Information 9 The Role of the City of Edmonton in Sport and Recreation Facility Provision 9 Current Levels of Satisfaction with Edmonton s Sport and Recreation Facilities 11 Previous Investigations into Edmonton s Sport and Recreation Facility Provision 11 Summary Points 14 Field and Diamond Facilities in Edmonton: Supply Issues 15 Existing Tournament Facilities in Edmonton 15 Other Fields and Diamonds in Edmonton 18 Additional (non City-managed) Field Facilities within Edmonton 19 Field Tournament Sites in the Edmonton Area 20 Field and Diamond Facilities in Edmonton: Demand Issues 24 Previous Demand Analyses 24 Survey of Edmonton Residents (2000) 26 Survey of Edmonton User Groups (2001) 28 Edmonton Tournament Inventory and Potential 35 Factors Affecting Potential Demand 39 Comparisons Used in the Assessment of Field Tournament Facility Needs in Edmonton 44 Tournament Level Facilities in the City of Calgary 44 South Surrey Athletic Park 47 Field Tournament Facility Requirements for Edmonton 50 Site and Cost Considerations 53 Potential for Expansion of Existing Field Sites in Edmonton 53 Multi-Sport Facility or Multiple Sites: Pros and Cons 58 Upgrade Existing Facilities or New Development: Pros and Cons 60 Strategies to Maximize Usage 62 Summary and Conclusions 63 Recommendations 66 References 72 Appendices Appendix A Survey of Sport Groups 73 List of Tables Table 1 City Managed Sites Currently used for Diamond Tournaments 16 Table 2 City Managed Sites Currently used for Field Tournaments 17 Table 3 - Sports Fields Available for Booking through the City of Edmonton (2000) 19 Table 4 Field Tournament Facilities in Communities Surrounding Edmonton 21 Table 5 Reported Participation in Field Activities by Sport (1995) 25 Table 6 Reported Edmonton Participants (2000) 27 Table 7 User Group Surveys Contacts and Responses 29 Table 8 - Summary of Survey Responses from Field Sports 31 Table 9 - Summary of Survey Responses by Diamond Sports 33 Table 10 - Illustrations of Edmonton s Capacity to Host Field Tournaments ( ) 37 Table 11 Diamond and Field Tournament Bookings City of Edmonton ( ) 38 Table 12 - Calgary Sport and Recreation Venues Capable of Hosting Tournaments 45 Table 13 Edmonton Field Tournament Site Needs 50 Table 14 - Existing Sites with Expansion Potential for Diamond Tournaments 55 Table 15 - Existing Sites with Expansion Potential for Field Tournaments 56 Table 16 - Factors to be considered in Deciding between Upgrading or New Development of Facilities 60

4 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 2 Acknowledgements The following sponsors of the study are recognized: Edmonton Sport Council Imperial Oil City of Edmonton Economic Development Edmonton

5 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 3 Executive Summary In June of 2000, representatives of the City of Edmonton Community Services Department, the Edmonton Sport Council and other interested parties began meeting to discuss the perceived need for field tournament sites within the city of Edmonton. During the course of discussion, it was identified that a formal field tournament sites need assessment and a study on the economic impact of such a facility were necessary. It was identified that the Edmonton Sport Council intended to complete a formal study on the Economic Significance of Amateur Sport and Active Recreation in the city of Edmonton in 2000 and that synergies would exist between the three reports. In addition, it was common agreement that a report independent of the City of Edmonton Community Services Department would lend additional credibility. Consequently, the Edmonton Sport Council was contracted by the City of Edmonton Community Services department to conduct a formal field tournament site needs assessment. In March of 2001, Caminata Consulting was retained by the Edmonton Sport Council, in conjunction with the City of Edmonton Community Services department and other interested parties to conduct an assessment to determine the need for multi-use sport field tournament sites in Edmonton. The scope of the study was limited to the perceived need for outdoor field tournament facilities, and diamond and rectangular field needs in particular. The former includes baseball, softball, slo-pitch, fastball, etc. The latter includes sports such as soccer, football, rugby, lacrosse, etc. In focussing entirely on the need for outdoor tournament quality fields and diamonds, the analysis did not consider the possibility of joint use of indoor sports facilities (such as arenas and swimming pools) with outdoor facilities. Based on the analysis of data collected from a variety of sources for the current study, together with conclusions of previous investigations, it is concluded that there is an unmet need for quality diamonds and rectangular sports field tournament sites in Edmonton. The main findings of this analysis include the following supply and demand matters, issues related to future facility provision, and key conclusions and recommendations. Supply and Demand Matters The development of a sport tournament field facility in Edmonton would contribute to City Council s Community Vision for Edmonton in a variety of ways. This could occur both through providing a site that could diversify the city s economic base by allowing the hosting of events and, secondarily, through adding to the city s inventory of high quality fields and diamonds available to residents for regular league play. The City Administration places a high priority on meeting the demand of Edmonton residents for sport and active recreation facilities. Edmonton residents consider recreational and sports facilities as key contributors to their quality of life. Previous studies on the provision of outdoor sport and recreation facilities in Edmonton have highlighted the need for additional quality fields and diamonds.

6 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 4 Existing field facilities are insufficient to meet current demands even for regular league play, let alone tournament hosting. Edmonton is seen to be at a disadvantage compared with other Alberta municipalities when it comes to the physical capacity for hosting field tournament events. For Edmonton to promote an image as having the ability to host sports events successfully, the development of suitable state-of-the-art field facilities is essential. Demand projections infer likely increased demand over next 2-3 decades. This will be as a result of increased population, and increased demand for tournament facilities among older age participants. Edmonton is currently losing an opportunity for economic stimuli by not having appropriate tournament field facilities to offer local sport groups. In fact, a number of Edmonton-based groups host tournaments outside the city because field facilities simply are not available in Edmonton. Issues Related to Future Facility Provision The mere upgrading of existing field facilities for tournament play would not provide an ideal tournament site for the sports of soccer and softball / slo-pitch / fast-pitch. Another consideration in upgrading existing field facilities is that many require major renovations, which would likely result in a decreased supply of facilities during construction. The development of new tournament field facilities would have the spin-off effect of increasing the stock of high-quality fields and diamonds in Edmonton that could be used for regular league (midweek) play. Any new field facility development would likely involve a partnership between the City, sport user-groups, community groups, and businesses. Multiple-use field sites have considerable initial and ongoing cost advantages over the development (or upgrading) of several single-use sites. However, single site provision would enable certain social, political and economic benefits of facilities to be distributed around the city. Key Conclusions and Recommendations Based on the information provided, data collected and analysis, the following major conclusions can be drawn: Edmonton currently has a lack of tournament field facilities for certain sports (notably soccer, softball / slo-pitch / fast-pitch). Economies of scale and scope, as well as the experience of other municipalities in western Canada, dictate that a variety of joint user group tournament field site needs could be met most cost efficiently through the sharing of certain facilities in a single location. The costs of upgrading and maintaining several existing single-sport field facilities are likely to exceed those associated with developing a new multi-use facility. In addition, flexibility in design of such a facility would reduce the risk associated with changing consumer tastes.

7 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 5 The accommodation of non-organized recreation options in a new facility would enhance its marketability, and also create a broader user base. Three design scenarios are presented as possible means of meeting the needs stated in the report. The preferred option is to develop a multi-use sport tournament and recreation field facility to complement existing single-use (and limited multi-use) sites that exist in Edmonton. Finally, a number of specific recommendations are provided to maximize the utilization rate of any new facility development. These include recommendations related to location, the provision of recreation opportunities, flexibility in design, fees and charges, and planning, management and maintenance issues.

8 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 6 Introduction Over the past several years, various City of Edmonton Community Services committees have identified a felt need for permanent outdoor tournament facilities in the city for several sports. A tournament field facility is defined here as a single venue at which several games can be played simultaneously (as opposed to hosting an event at disparate locations around the city). However, to date there has been no definitive investigation to evaluate the actual extent of the need for such a facility (or facilities) or the potential demand for it, and the evidence supporting this conclusion has been only anecdotal in nature. The City of Edmonton therefore determined that a study prepared by an independent third party should be conducted in order to evaluate whether there exists a need for such a facility, or facilities. The purpose of this study is to produce results that will assist the City with its planning process. Cursory investigations on the part of the City of Edmonton and the Edmonton Sport Council have revealed some support among existing users for the development of tournament field venues that could cater to a variety of outdoor sports and recreation pursuits. The attractiveness of a facility of this nature is demonstrated by the following: It could act as a catalyst for bringing more sports events to the city. These events could be regional, provincial, national, or international in scope. It could provide a suitable site for regular league play to alleviate current perceived overuse of premium fields. It could eliminate the need for active Edmontonians to travel outside the city to find suitable field facilities for league and tournament play. It could act as Edmonton s major Alberta Centennial project for the city and be a centrepiece for a multiple use sport and recreation venue. It should be stressed that no commitment has been made by the City, or other parties, at this stage to proceed with the development of a tournament site (or sites). Furthermore, no money has been earmarked for a facility of this nature. However, as part of their decision-making process, in March 2001, the Edmonton Sport Council (and other interested parties) engaged the services of Caminata Consulting to study the feasibility of developing a multi-sport tournament field and recreation site (or sites) in the city of Edmonton. More specifically, it had previously been determined from feedback from existing users that the potential site(s) should focus on provision for diamond and/or rectangular field sports. The Consultant worked with the staff of the Edmonton Sport Council (ESC), as well as representatives of the City of Edmonton s Community Services department. Some data were provided by both of these agencies. In addition, the Consultant collected other information from user groups, and facility providers both in Edmonton and elsewhere. The Consultant wishes to thank the many local groups and individuals that co-operated during the project by responding to questionnaires and participating in interviews. While the contributions made by these parties, as well as by Community Services and ESC staff, are appreciated, any errors of fact and the conclusions contained in this report are the responsibility of the Consultant alone.

9 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 7 Objectives and Scope The primary objective of the project was to identify whether or not Edmonton could sustain a need for tournament field facilities for a variety of field sports, taking account of existing demand and projected demand over the foreseeable future. Furthermore, the costs and efficiencies associated with operating single sport tournament field sites, as opposed to multiple sport sites were to be considered. In addition, a goal of the study was to identify events and tournaments that could be held in Edmonton that are currently being held elsewhere because of a lack of suitable facilities. Finally, the project was to identify potential partners that could work with the City of Edmonton to develop and maintain tournament sites. The scope of the investigation is limited to outdoor field sports, and specifically diamond sports (softball, slo-pitch, baseball, etc.) and rectangular field sports (soccer, rugby, football, lacrosse, etc.). However, it is recognized that there are many other potential users of outdoor fields and their surroundings (e.g., cricket, cross-country skiing, speed skating, BMX-riding, etc. as well as recreational park users). Nevertheless, the primary focus of the investigation is on diamond sports and rectangular field sports. In limiting the scope of the investigation to outdoor field sports, no account is taken of the demand for arena sports, such as hockey, or other sports played primarily in an indoor setting (e.g., basketball). Thus, the potential for sharing certain facilities with indoor sports does not form part of the analysis. Furthermore, no attempt is made in this investigation to provide an evaluation of demand levels for specific types of surface (e.g., artificial turf versus natural grass fields). Additionally, the identification of a specific site (or sites) on which a tournament facility (or facilities) could be constructed would involve several issues that are beyond the scope of this needs assessment (e.g., land availability, planning issues, negotiations between various City departments, etc.). The development of a multiple sport field tournament and recreation site in the city of Edmonton is by no means certain at this stage. Therefore, it was deemed that, at this juncture, it was premature to engage in a widespread and far-reaching public consultation process. As a result, the research scope of the study was limited to generating data and input from only selected groups and individuals in order to obtain information and ascertain these agents interests and preferences. These groups and individuals included (but were not limited to) the following: Amateur sport representatives baseball, softball, slo-pitch, fastball, football, soccer, rugby, lacrosse, field hockey, etc. City of Edmonton Community Services, Planning Other nearby municipalities with facilities similar to those being considered in this analysis ( the competition ) Operators of similar facilities elsewhere in Canada Potential partners (public, private, and non-profit)

10 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 8 Bearing in mind the limitations imposed by the preliminary nature of the study, the following outcomes were expected: Identification of the potential usage that new field tournament facilities might attract if they were to be developed in the city of Edmonton, accounting for existing and projected demand and supply of facilities over the next 25 years. An assessment of costs and efficiencies associated with the operation of single sport field tournament and recreation sites, as compared with a multiple sport field tournament and recreation site. Provision of an inventory of events and field tournaments that have recently been held in the city of Edmonton. Identification of possible events and field tournaments that could be held in the city that are currently being held elsewhere because of a lack of a suitable venue in Edmonton. Identification of potential partners that might be interested in working with the City to develop a field tournament site (or sites). The remainder of the report outlines the following themes. The Consultant compiled background information from a variety of sources that was deemed relevant to the current investigation. A summary of this information is provided in the Background section of the report. This is followed by an assessment of the current supply of and demand for sport and recreation field facilities in Edmonton. These sections of the report include an evaluation of both existing field facility usage in the city of Edmonton, as well as facility availability in the surrounding municipalities. They also provide an assessment of the potential sources of future supply and demand for sport and recreation field facilities in Edmonton. Having established the existing and projected demand for and supply of field facilities, the question of need for a field tournament site (or sites) is addressed in the following section of the report. A variety of methods for assessing this need that were used in the analysis are described, together with the results of this analysis. These include comparisons of Edmonton s field facility provision with that of two other municipalities in western Canada, an assessment of the pros and cons of upgrading existing field facilities, as opposed to development a new site (or sites), and an evaluation of the relative merits of a multi-sport field facility as compared with several single-sport field facilities. In addition to assessing whether a need for additional field facilities exists, this section of the report also identifies issues related to cost, maintenance, usage, and operation of any new field facility that would need to be addressed should such a site (or sites) be developed. Based on the preceding analysis, the next section of the report provides a synthesis of the findings and general conclusions regarding the future field and diamond facility requirements in the city of Edmonton. The final section of the report provides some specific recommendations regarding the provision of facilities for specific sports, as well as strategies for maximizing usage.

11 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 9 Background Information This section of the report provides a summary of relevant background information that relates to the investigation. The information contained here has been generated from existing resources, and is reproduced here to provide some context to the decision making process surrounding the potential development of new outdoor sport and recreation facilities in Edmonton. The Role of the City of Edmonton in Sport and Recreation Facility Provision Publicly stated priorities and roles as they relate to the provision of sport and recreation facilities by City Council and the City Administration (in the form of the Community Services department) include the following: City Council Direction The following excerpts from published documents highlight the importance that City Council has placed on promoting various aspects of life for its citizens. Edmonton s municipal development plan, Plan Edmonton, outlines the Community Vision for Edmonton, which includes: A culturally diverse city where people choose to live, learn, work and play [emphasis added]; An international smart city with a vibrant economy; A capital city where businesses want to locate and expand; and A welcoming city where citizens take pride in their community and in their contribution to its quality of life. A tournament field facility could contribute to each of these components of the Council s vision as it could provide a site for sport and recreation, but also promote the city s economy by hosting events. Furthermore, the provision of public sport and recreation facilities could be one of many factors that business leaders consider in decisions to locate new plants. Finally, the pride that citizens take in their community has been shown to increase in other regional communities with local new recreation facilities. City Council s mandate states that In Edmonton, municipal government will lead by - Seeking opportunities to collaborate with individuals, organizations, communities and other governments; [and] - Offering all citizens access to effective programs, facilities and services that enhance the quality of their lives The first statement indicates that partnerships with community groups and other entities are likely to be an important component of any new sport and recreation facility development. The second statement confirms that Council is committed to providing facilities that will improve the quality of life of Edmonton residents. It is therefore

12 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 10 incumbent upon any individual or group making a proposal for a new facility to illustrate that it will have a positive impact on the quality of life of Edmontonians. City of Edmonton Administration The City of Edmonton s Community Services department delivers its various programs and services through a budget of approximately $92 million, with a staff of 1,004. Included in its diverse mandate is the management of facility assets including 1,838 sports fields, 896 city and neighbourhood parks, Commonwealth Stadium, and the velodrome. The strategic importance to the City of community places that are available for Edmontonians for active recreation pursuits is highlighted by one of the targets of the Community Services department s Integrated Service Strategy for the next decade. It states that: Our first-class leisure, recreational and cultural facilities are the envy of many and second to none. But most importantly, City of Edmonton facilities are public facilities; they belong to all of us We need to protect our investment in facilities and find new ways to maintain, redevelop and improve access to them (City of Edmonton Community Services, 2000, p.75) The document goes on to stress that: Edmonton has an outstanding infrastructure of first-class recreation and leisure facilities. We know that, over time, facilities age and require repair and upgrade. Community needs also change over time. We need to work with our corporate and community partners to develop, preserve and maintain our legacy of infrastructure and ensure that our facilities continue to meet community needs (City of Edmonton Community Services, 2000, p. 78) However, the Strategy also acknowledges the need to expand the role of community facilities beyond their current use (p.76). Among the actions that the Community Services department has identified are the development of increased opportunities for: Unstructured and spontaneous recreation activities and community events in facilities; Investigating off-season uses for facilities to maximize year-round use; The development of community hubs as sites for recreational program delivery; Expanding the role of facilities into centres that provide other information and services; and Assisting in the location and securing of venues for major events. It is therefore relatively clear that the City Administration attaches a high level of importance to meeting the demand for sport and active recreation facilities for its citizens, and that it is likely to play a major role in any new facility development, while accounting for changes in community requirements. It is also evident that key partners will need to be sought and secured to actually develop a new facility, such as a multisport and recreation site.

13 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 11 Current Levels of Satisfaction with Edmonton s Sport and Recreation Facilities The City of Edmonton recently commissioned a survey to identify the level of satisfaction that its inhabitants felt regarding the provision of various services. The City of Edmonton 2000 Citizen Satisfaction Survey (Banister Research & Consulting Inc., 2000) identified a number of areas in which citizens felt that it is necessary to add funding for improvements. Improving recreation facilities was identified by 5% of respondents as a funding priority. While this figure may not appear significant, it represents a similar proportion of respondents who identified improving roads, and is more than twice the proportion of Edmontonians who identified libraries as an area in which funding should be increased (2%). In a related question, survey respondents were asked to choose one area on which to spend new capital funds. Some 2% of the population indicated that recreational facilities should be the main priority for additional spending. However, focus group discussions highlighted the possibility of soliciting corporate sponsorship to support recreational capital spending. While funding for recreation facilities as a priority spending area for the City may not appear to receive considerable support, based on these figures, other results from the survey highlight the importance that Edmontonians place on the provision of sports and recreation facilities. When asked to identify one of the three most significant factors contributing to a high quality of life in the City of Edmonton, the top two responses provided by survey participants were: City parks/green spaces/park system/ River Valley 38% Recreational facilities/ sports facility/ golf courses/ recreation 16%. Thus, there appears to be a strong demand for the municipal provision of sport and recreational facilities among Edmontonians. Previous Investigations into Edmonton s Sport and Recreation Facility Provision A number of previous studies have been conducted in attempts to assess the need for recreation and sports facilities in Edmonton. These investigations have taken various approaches and revealed a number of relevant results. However, it should be noted that none has focused specifically on the anticipated need for a multiple-sport tournament and recreation facility. This section of the report briefly outlines the findings of these studies. Demand Analysis (Pannell, Kerr, Forster Management Consultants, 1988) Major recommendations of a 1988 demand analysis, conducted by Pannell, Kerr, Forster Management Consultants included the following: More regulation size sports fields need to be developed. Good fields are in short supply. Field redevelopment should be based on the types of sport played, participation levels, age groups, and standards required for different types of user. Allocation should be standardized and made more equitable

14 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 12 Field utilization levels should be more accurately monitored. Some users will support user fees but only if maintenance and quality are enhanced. Total Quality Sports Fields (Sports Field Strategy Committee, 1996) A committee composed of members from the Edmonton sports field community (both diamond and rectangular), the Edmonton Federation of Community Leagues, both school boards, and Edmonton Parks and Recreation provided a number of recommendations for the manner in which the City should deliver its services on sports fields. The committee made detailed recommendations on the following aspects of sports field use: maintenance, user contributions, bookings, quality and quantity of fields, and customer service. One of the key recommendations of the committee was that the department, in collaboration with diamond users, should determine the feasibility of development of a minimum eight-field tournament site for minor and adult fastball, slo-pitch and softball. The rationale for this recommendation included the following features: The growth in adult slo-pitch alone and the potential market for hosting of larger scale tournaments presents an opportunity that should be investigated by the City. Current facilities available for tournaments are primarily neighbourhood based (with the exception of John Fry and Goldstick, which are situated solely in SE Edmonton). The availability of a north side tournament facility will ease the demand on the neighbourhood sites as well as provide north side participants with a more accessible location. Feasibility should include a cost-benefit analysis to ensure that sufficient revenue is generated to offset annual operating costs. (Total Quality Sports Fields, 1996, p.26) Artificial Turf & Diamond Tournament Sites (1998) A 1998 report entitled Artificial Turf & Diamond Tournament Sites presented data on the feasibility of building a multiple-field tournament site in Edmonton. A number of potential sites were identified, but many were rejected because of size limitations. Three best available choices (Onion Park, Henry Singer, and Overlanders Park) were considered to be the most viable locations. Each site had plans for varying numbers of diamonds. Various economic benefits associated with tournament hosting were outlined. Community Services Survey (May 1999) A brief survey was mailed to sport user groups asking for responses to questions related to the need to develop a World Class, Multiple Sport Tournament Site. The survey yielded a disappointing response rate (only 18 sport groups), but the respondents were unanimous in supporting the need for a tournament site. Of the 18 responding groups, 15 indicated that they would use such a facility (the exceptions being certain soccer clubs, which already have their own small multiple-field sites available in the city). No

15 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 13 responses were received from representatives of the following sports: rugby, field hockey, cricket, and speed skating. The rationale for this perceived need can be summarized under the following categories: Increasing demand; No facility is currently available in the city and therefore Edmonton participants must travel outside the city to find suitable sites for tournaments and league play; Edmonton is falling behind other cities in the provision of recreational facilities; and Insufficient facilities for regular league play are available in Edmonton (not just tournament sites). Among specific sport responses and comments were the following: - Slo-pitch: There is a growing need and growing number of people. Tournaments are held every weekend in the area. There is no tournament facility now and its creation would eliminate need to go outside the city. There is a shortage of fields all season. A ten-diamond tournament site would be preferred. Weekend tournaments are used as fundraisers for the host team. Tournaments, while competitive, have a social aspect as well. - Fastball: The league runs 10 tournaments a year none in Edmonton. Would use a tournament facility if it were priced within range, John Fry is considered too expensive. - Baseball: There are insufficient diamonds in city. As a result, it is difficult to hold tournaments in city and the sport is losing participants. Tournaments are held over a week so only a few fields are required, but better quality fields are needed. Goldstick works well for the Little League tournaments held in the city. However, most baseball tournaments held in St Albert. - Football: Experienced growth of 30 teams in the last two years. Current facilities are maxed-out. There is potential for 10 new teams in two years, and three new tournaments if facilities were available. Major events held at McMahon stadium in Calgary. - Soccer: Various groups are going outside the city for tournaments because of a lack of space in the city. Groups indicated that they more need high quality fields. The Edmonton Soccer Association grew from 140 teams in 1998 to 182 teams in 1999, and expected over 200 teams in For this growth alone, the sport projected a need for an additional 15 fields. The Edmonton Minor Soccer Association grew from 80 teams in 1998 to 111 in Edmonton Sport Council Survey (1999) As part of its mandate to act as a voice for sport in Edmonton, the Edmonton Sport Council surveyed its members and held a workshop in 1999 to ascertain the need for facilities among sport user groups. The following is a summary of some of the responses: - 84% of respondents indicated that there is a need for more major facilities (including sport fields). Comments included a need for better quality and more soccer fields.

16 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 14-44% indicated that there is a facility that their group requires that does not exist in the city. Comments included sport fields, a baseball facility, and more good quality soccer fields. - 60% indicated that insufficient facilities prevented their group from holding an event in the City. Comments included baseball nationals, and a need for improved facilities for provincial soccer finals. - 40% indicated that events that were not held in Edmonton because of a lack of suitable facilities were held in a neighbouring community. - 60% indicated that their group requires additional facility time. In order to address this issue, some groups were finding creative ways to partner with the City to build facilities, while others were simply renting facilities outside the city of Edmonton. Summary Points The development of a sport tournament field facility in Edmonton could contribute to City Council s Community Vision for Edmonton in a variety of ways. This could occur both through providing a site for recreation of residents and through diversifying the city s economic base by hosting events. It is likely that any new development would involve a partnership between the City, local users, community groups, and business. The City Administration places a high priority on meeting the demand of Edmonton residents for sport and active recreation facilities. Maximization of usage of any new facility would be a key issue, as would the flexibility to meet new community demands in the future. Edmonton residents consider recreational and sports facilities as key contributors to their quality of life. Previous studies on the provision of outdoor sport and recreation facilities in Edmonton have highlighted the need for additional quality fields and diamonds. In absolute terms, there is some evidence to suggest that existing facilities are insufficient to meet current demands for tournament play. In relative terms, Edmonton is seen to be at a disadvantage compared with other Alberta municipalities when it comes to the physical capacity for hosting tournament events.

17 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 15 Field and Diamond Facilities in Edmonton: Supply Issues This section of the report contains a current situation analysis in which the existing supply of field and diamond facilities in Edmonton is outlined. This focuses primarily on rectangular fields and diamonds currently provided for public use, either by the City of Edmonton or through joint-use agreements with public education institutions. In addition, some sport clubs provide facilities in Edmonton that add to the stock of sports fields and diamonds currently available. In addition to the existing supply of facilities in the city of Edmonton, in addressing the potential need for tournament venues, it was important to consider the supply of suitable facilities in the greater Edmonton area. This is because, at least for tournament play, organizing groups appear to be willing to travel a short distance to host events if suitable facilities are not available locally. In order to assess the potential need for new facilities, it is vital to ascertain the existing inventory of fields and diamonds. Based on information obtained from interviews with City personnel and from published data, this section provides an overview of the current facility supply in the city of Edmonton. Existing Tournament Facilities in Edmonton While previous studies on the potential for tournament sites in Edmonton have stressed the lack of existing facilities, it would be erroneous to conclude that Edmonton-based sport groups do not successfully host tournaments at present. Such events are either small-scale ones that can be accommodated at existing locations, or make use of multiple sites around the city. As a starting point for the current analysis, an inventory of existing sites at which tournaments are held in the city was developed. For diamond sports, the facilities are limited to those managed by the City and available for booking through the centralized reservations system that the City operates. While numerous City-managed sites also host tournaments for rectangular field sports, there are a number of private clubs that own facilities at which tournaments are held in Edmonton. These are also included in the inventory of current facilities capable of hosting such events. Tables 1 and 2 summarize the current sites that are used for diamond and rectangular field tournaments respectively. Rental rates charged by the City of Edmonton for use of Class B fields (i.e., John Fry, Goldstick, Jasper Place, Coronation, and Rollie Miles) in 2001 ranged from $11.80 per hour for minors for weekend events to $35.35 per hour for adults for statutory holiday events. Lighting was charged at an additional $29.50 per hour for all users. For Premier ( Class C ) fields and shale diamonds, the charges ranged from $2.35 per hour for minors for weekend use to $5.95 per hour for adult midweek use. Two-day concession permits were charged at $29.55 for John Fry Park and $12.20 elsewhere.

18 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 16 Table 1 City-Managed Sites Currently Used for Diamond Tournaments Location Details Comments John Fry Park 5 diamonds (all shale infield mound, lights, scoreboard; 230 scoreboard & lights; 230 scoreboard; 2 x 225 ) Canopy site Adequate parking 3 top quality diamonds (2 softball, 1 baseball) Limited ancillary facilities (trailers) Concession by permit (fee); additional fencing needed Size of softball outfield unsuitable for both men s and women s regulation play User groups feel that tournaments are not encouraged by facility operator ( it seems they do not want anyone on the park ) Airway Park Argyll Millwoods Park Rosslyn Grand Trunk Castledowns JJ Bowlen-St. Dominic- McLeod Goldstick Park Callingwood 4 diamonds (314 shale infield & baseball mound; 285 shale infield; 230 shale infield; 235 shale infield)) 5 diamonds (all shale infield 2 x 300 ; 290 ; 330 and 300 with baseball mound) 5 diamonds (300 shale infield; 275 shale infield; 200 shale infield; 240 grass infield; 235 grass infield) 8 diamonds (240 shale infield; 333 shale infield; 290 shale base paths; 220 shale infield; 275 shale infield; 325 grass infield ; 350 grass infield; 250 shale infield) 5 diamonds (300 shale infield & baseball mound; 2 x 220 grass infield; 2 x 215 grass infield) 5 diamonds (285 shale infield 320 grass infield; 250 shale infield; 340 grass infield ; 190 grass infield); 1 teaching station 3 diamonds (3 x 250 shale infields, one has mound and lights) 6 diamonds (4 x 225 shale infields; 203 grass; 196 grass); 1 teaching station Rundle Park 6 diamonds (5 with shale infields 240, 202, 226, 228, 236 ; 1 grass infield 310 ) Adequate parking Limited scope for expansion Limited ability to expand, unless City Centre Airport land redeveloped. Change rooms & social facility owned by Clansmen RFC can be rented out Limited ancillary facilities available Limited scope for expansion Limited ancillary facilities available Only three shale infields, different sizes Limited scope for expansion Diamonds not all in single location Limited ancillary facilities available Grass infields make site unsuitable for high-end tournaments Diamonds not all in single location Limited ancillary facilities available Limited use Limited ancillary facilities Clearance on fields makes them unsuitable for adult play River Valley location is likely to prevent further development (because of planning-related issues). However NE Zone has developed a proposal for expansion and upgrade to tournament scale for baseball. Source: Based on discussions with City of Edmonton Community Services staff, November 2000, and survey responses from user groups.

19 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 17 Table 2 Facilities Currently Used for Rectangular Field Tournaments Location Details Comments J.J. Bowlen McLeod St. 6 soccer fields (325 x170 ; 2 x 240 x150 ; 270 x170 ; 2 x Only one full-size soccer field Limited scope for expansion Dominic 180 x100 )) Millwoods Park 5 soccer fields (4 x 330 x210 ; Limited scope for expansion Rosslyn Grand Trunk Callingwood Castledowns Confederation Coronation Henry Singer (managed by Edmonton Soccer Association) University of Alberta Faculté St- Jean University of Alberta South Campus ( Foote Field ) 300 x190 ); cricket pitch 7 soccer fields (330 x180 ; 330 x200 ; 330 x x180 ; 310 x205 ; 230 x175 ; 180 x100 ) 7 soccer fields (2 x 240 x150 ; 3 x 300 x195 ; 270 x195 ; 170 x115 ) 6 soccer fields (2 x 330 x210 ; 2 x 300 x210 ; 330 x190 ; 300 x190 ) 6 soccer fields (3 x 330 x210 ; 325 x175 ; 270 x195 ; 265 x175 ) 8 soccer fields (250 x125 ; 330 x170 ; 165 x110 ; 2 x 330 x200 ; 2 x 270 x150 ; 330 x195 ) 6 soccer fields; concession; dressing rooms Limited scope for expansion Only three full-size fields Limited scope for expansion Limited scope for expansion Limited scope for expansion Only four full-size fields Limited scope for expansion Scope for expansion for 6 additional fields and parking Space for up to four ball diamonds (2 exist now) Servicing the site is a major problem 2 soccer fields Some amenities Has been home field for U of A Limited scope for expansion Premier grass field; artificial turf (both with bleacher seating); plans for additional 4-6 fields; concession; dressing rooms; banquet facility; parking Considerable land holdings Opportunity cost of expansion is high (many other potential University-related uses for the land) Britannia Park 1 field (240 x150 ) Used for Gaelic football events Jasper Place Rollie Miles Track 3 fields (2 x 330 x100 ; 200 x100 ); shale track 2 fields; track & field facility; change rooms; social facility at adjoining community league No amenities or services Primary use for track and field (since upgrades conducted for 2001 World Championships in Athletics) Pirates RFC 3 fields; social facility Primary use for rugby Leprechaun-Tigers 2 Fields; club house with change RFC rooms & showers Nor Westers Athletic Park 2 fields; 12 beach volleyball courts; change rooms; social facility Limited expansion opportunity Use of Ellerslie during festival events Also used by SW United for soccer

20 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 18 Airway Park Ellerslie Rugby Park Private Soccer Clubs (Victoria, Croatia, Ital, Scottish, etc.) 2 Rugby fields, 1 soccer field; change rooms & social facility owned by Clansmen RFC 5 fields; club room; pro-shop; change rooms; lounge; concession; banquet facilities (250 capacity) 10 quality fields (dispersed at various locations throughout Edmonton) Change rooms can be rented out to insured user groups Excellent facility suitable for festival tournaments, and regular season play Insufficient seating for premier events, although potential for an additional field and space for large (10,000 seat) stadium Also used for touch football Limited opportunity for expansion at most facilities Availability to other user groups restricted Source: Based on discussions with City of Edmonton Community Services staff, November 2000, and survey responses from user groups. In addition to the facilities identified in these tables, three City owned stadia are potential sites for hosting games as part of larger tournaments. These are Commonwealth Stadium, Clark Field, and TELUS Field. Given that professional sports teams are the primary users of the former and latter, their availability for amateur users has traditionally been limited. In part, this has been a cost issue (rental fees charged to use these facilities generally exceed available budgets for amateur tournament events). These charges act as a rationing device and help to ensure that high quality fields can be maintained for the professional teams. In addition, the large amount of seating at Commonwealth Stadium and TELUS Field prevents them from being suitable sites for most tournaments. Finally, given that none of these venues is in close proximity to other facilities that could be used for preliminary rounds, their potential for use for tournament finals is extremely limited in scope. Other Fields and Diamonds in Edmonton In addition to designated tournament sites that currently exist in Edmonton, there are a number of community fields and diamonds that are currently used by tournament hosts. This is particularly the case for larger tournaments, which require more fields/diamonds than are available at a single site in the city. However, the primary use for the majority of fields and diamonds in the city is for regular league play and practice. With the exception of a small number of premier fields and diamond facilities, the quality of fields and diamonds at many locations in the city is not suitable for tournament play. The total inventory of sports fields available for booking through the City of Edmonton in 2000 is shown in Table 3. It should be noted that the figures presented in Table 3 include overlapping fields. Thus, while a total of 1706 fields and diamonds are indicated in the table, there are only approximately 1200 fields/diamonds available at any one time. In addition, for tournament play a higher quality field/diamond is generally required. Table 3 indicates a

21 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 19 total of only 120 shale diamonds (60 or 90 ) and 22 premier rectangular fields available for booking through the City of Edmonton. Table 3 Sports Fields Available for Booking through the City of Edmonton (2000) Quadrant of Edmonton Total Diamonds SW SE NW NE Small Large Shale Shale Other TOTAL Rectangular Small Medium Large Premier TOTAL Source: Based on discussions with City of Edmonton Community Services staff, November Additional (non-city-managed) Field Facilities within Edmonton The majority of sport and recreation facilities (diamonds and rectangular fields) within the city of Edmonton are currently either owned or managed by the City. However, as indicated elsewhere in this report, there are both public and private organisations that contribute to, or have the potential to contribute to, the overall supply of facilities within the city. For example, the Millwoods Soccer Association wishes to construct a major sport field development in that part of the city. To date, no land has been allocated for the proposed multiple-field site and its future is uncertain at this stage. Another example of new playing fields coming on stream is provided by the University of Alberta s Foote Field on land previously allocated for agricultural research: the University Farm (formally known as the Edmonton Research Station). With discussions recently completed between the City and the University to include Foote Field in the Joint Use Agreement, there appears to be considerable potential for University-owned playing fields to form a part of an expanded inventory available for use by various Edmonton organizations. Given the academic schedule, and the timing of most amateur outdoor tournaments in the city, there appear to be obvious synergies that could be exploited that could provide a rectangular field tournament site at Foote Field. In order to ascertain the potential for this site as a tournament facility, representatives of the University were interviewed. Although a final decision has yet to be reached, it is quite likely that between four and six additional grass rectangular fields will be developed in the near future at Foote Field. This would create a site with 5-7 grass fields

22 Field Tournament Site Needs Assessment 20 and one all-weather surface. One of the grass fields is of the highest quality and has a seating capacity of approximately 1,500 in bleachers. It should be noted that the other fields would be neither sand-based nor irrigated, but would likely be of a higher standard than many fields currently in use for tournament play. In addition to the strong potential for a near-term development of fields, there is also a possibility of additional playing fields being developed nearby, should land become available. Field Tournament Sites in the Edmonton Area Although the focus of this needs assessment is on the city of Edmonton, it is important to recognize the actual and potential existence of facilities in the immediate surrounding area. This is particularly the case when one considers that the life span of a new sport facility is likely to be in the range of 30 years. It is quite possible that amalgamation of Edmonton with the surrounding municipalities could occur within that timeframe and this must be taken into consideration when assessing the need for a new facility. It should be noted that the above inventory does not include the existing or potential supply of tournament site type facilities in the immediate surrounding areas. However, even though these facilities are not in the city of Edmonton, they represent tournament sites that are being (or could be) used by Edmonton residents in the absence of suitable sites in the city. This is an element of existing (and potential) supply that should be considered in assessing the need for new tournament facilities in Edmonton. This is because an organization hosting a tournament is likely to use the most appropriate facility available to it, with little regard to a short drive from its home area. Thus in assessing the potential demand for additional facilities for tournament play in Edmonton, it is important to consider both the supply of facilities in the surrounding municipalities, as well as the fees charged to user groups. Models that attempt to assess the demand for recreation sites often consider the distance that users must travel in order to make use of the facility. It is usually this distance, rather than the municipality in which a facility is located, that is the more important factor in determining potential demand by local residents. For example, a resident of northwest Edmonton may be more likely to be attracted to use an existing tournament facility in Morinville than a new site in southeast Edmonton. The former site might, in fact, be more easily accessible from the Edmontonian s place of residence than the latter. Similarly a site in Spruce Grove may be more accessible to a resident of west Edmonton than a facility in the northeast part of the city. Therefore, it is important at least to consider the impact of existing and planned recreation sites in the broader Edmonton region. The first element of this competing supply (i.e., existing facilities) was assessed by contacting regional municipal recreation departments. However, the second (planned or potential new sites) presented more difficulties in cases where the plans were not in an advanced (and public) stage. Nevertheless, through interviewing recreation managers in surrounding municipalities, every effort was made to assess the likelihood of development of tournament facilities in Edmonton s neighbouring communities.