Rogers Center renovation: $300 million project kicks off

The Toronto Blue Jays announced Tuesday that demolition has been completed and construction has begun on the first phase of a multi-year, $300 million renovation of the Rogers Center.

The Blue Jays have shared videos and images of ongoing construction showing the removal of thousands of 500 level seats and structural demolition of the outfield.

According to the club, demolition began in October and was completed last week, and new construction began the second week of November, with concrete being poured at the 500 level along with the installation of new structural steel.

“Demolition was completed last week, culminating in 35 days of work and approximately 21,000 hours of work,” the Blue Jays said in a press release.

“On average, about 110 workers are on site every day, six days a week, including about 50 who are dedicated to demolition.”

Phase 1 of the renovation is expected to be completed ahead of the Jays’ 2023 home opener.

“2.2 million pounds of materials were recycled from the stadium, including 1.3 million pounds of concrete and 900,000 pounds of steel and metal,” the Blue Jays said.

“new [500 level] Seats will be delivered in January 2023. Information on the old 500th floor seats will be released as needed. “

In addition to replacing all 500 level seating, which hadn’t been done since the building opened, the 500 level will also feature two new social decks, similar to the existing WestJet Flight Deck, where fans can enjoy a drink. You can interact with other fans while drinking. where are their seats

At the field level, there are plans to build a family room for players’ families, a 5,000-square-foot weight room, and staff locker rooms.

The second renovation will begin in the 2023-2024 offseason and will include upgrades to the 100-level infield, premium club and social spaces at field level, and clubhouse and player facilities.

Rogers Center opened in 1989 as a sky dome at a cost of about $570 million (about $1 billion in today’s dollars) and was the first stadium with a fully retractable motorized roof.

like before reported by TSNThe club believes the renovations will extend the life of the stadium by another 10 to 15 years.

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Using file by Phil Tsekouras from CTV News Toronto