News Municipal Recreation
Proposed indoor sports facility in Thunder Bay could come with $55M price tag

A plan to build a new indoor sports facility in Thunder Bay, Ont. could cost the city more than $55 million over 25 years – an amount many councillors don’t wish to support.

The city has long debated plans for the construction of an indoor recreational facility, weighing differently priced proposals.

Council will be voting on a financing plan which is based on a $44.5-million Class C estimate for a new facility that would be built next to the community auditorium. Soccer Northwest Ontario had proposed the hangar-like facility next to the auditorium, but figures the cost should be significantly less than that estimated. The auditorium-located facility would have fewer amenities from that originally proposed in 2021 at Chapples Park.

Soccer, cricket, football and Ultimate Frisbee are among the sports that would be played in the facility.

As costs continue to be debated by council, one councillor had suggested an air-supported dome be built at a much cheaper cost and be located at Chapples Park.

Council is expected to address the matter at its meeting on Monday.