5 things that could make Tim Hortons Field even better
Published October 23, 2019 at 7:24 pm
When it became a foregone conclusion that Ivor Wynne could no longer service the needs of our community all those years ago, there was a lot — I mean A LOT — of back forth on what shape a new sta
When it became a foregone conclusion that Ivor Wynne could no longer service the needs of our community all those years ago, there was a lot — I mean A LOT — of back forth on what shape a new stadium would take.
We’re not going to rehash all those gory details.
Eventually, a stadium precinct was settled upon and public consultations narrowed down what Hamiltonians wanted to see in the area.
Ivor Wynne way back when. Photo courtesy Mark Visosky
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Tim Hortons Field is a beautiful venue — certainly a step-up from our Ivor Wynne — but in the way of amenities and convenience has it really changed all that much? As it looks like we’re heading into a playoffs run and we’re hosting to Grey Cup in two years, one can’t help but wonder where are all these amenities we originally envisioned for the area?
So, here are 5 things we think Tim Hortons Field needs to improve the fan experience.
5. Commercial space
This could potentially add a level of convenience for sports fans and concert attendees with the inclusion of, say, banking facilities that don’t cost an arm and a leg to access or a convenience store, Hamilton-specific retail shops etc. or anything your heart desires. The long and short of it is, any kind of retail or commercial business in the vicinity would do pretty well in a location like this.
4. More green space
Well, I think the addition of green space in any situation is nothing but beneficial in the long run, be here, it would be kind of nice to have a place to congregate, particularly somewhere shady for the hot summer months. There are plans for a Stadium Precinct park a couple blocks away from Tim Hortons Field (THF) and it looks like it’s going to be a pretty amazing addition to our city parks, and maybe it will scratch this itch for green space but a little more greenery in the immediate vicinity of the stadium would be a welcome addition.
3. Parking
Ah yes, there are many who’ve voiced their concern over this. Although to be fair, I’ve heard a lot of people say how amazing transit service is to this area particularly for big events. Those who have been coming to the area for years don’t seem to have that much trouble finding a place to park either. But I’ve certainly heard rumblings of how difficult it can be to find parking in the area and for big events nearby.
2. Space for tailgating/congregating/live music
This seems to be a big one for people. Previously, the park behind Scott Park was the gathering spot for tailgating Ti-Cats fans, but with the new Bernie Morelli Rec Centre and Bernie Custis Secondary School, both wonderful additions to our city, there isn’t room like there was before. There is, however, a great big giant open space right out front of the THF entrance, perhaps it’s time to rethink how this space can be used for people to come together before a game or event to maybe listen to live music or enjoy some refreshments. Might I suggest a licensed area where one can sit and enjoy the view?
1. Bars/Restaurants
Hamilton’s food scene is pretty epic but in the immediate neighbourhood of the stadium, the pickings are quite slim. It’s easy enough to meet up on Ottawa Street and grab a bite to eat before a game and walk down (it takes about 20 mins) but that’s not for everyone, especially people from out of town who don’t know the area well enough. If there’s space for it, there needs to be some kind of sports bar-type establishment or a family restaurant that can feed the hoards of hungry Ti-Cats fans because sometimes, concession food just isn’t enough!
Photo courtesy Tiger-Cats Facebook page
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