The first synthetic outdoor field in Northern B.C. presents sport tourism opportunities for Prince George
September 2018 – Members of the community gathered at Masich Place Stadium in September to celebrate the grand re-opening of the venue, a project the Trust supported with a $250,000 grant with an aim to expand sport tourism in Northern B.C.
Masich Place Stadium now sets the gold standard for outdoor track and field facilities in Northern B.C. Former hurdles to hosting large competitions, such as football and soccer tournaments, have been vaulted over thanks to a $4.8 million upgrade. New artificial turf extends the season in which the venue can be used and reduces game cancellations due to weather.
Athletes of all levels, from peewee to national, can train and compete on the synthetic turf with built-in shock pad and markings for CFL and FIFA regulation-sized fields.
The field is encircled by a rubber 8-lane track that is suitable for track competitions, training and leisurely walking. Other facilities on-site include two natural grass fields, throwing areas for shot put, javelin, discus and hammer, a practice field and a consolidated area for high jump, triple jump and pole vault. The throw and jump areas meet international track and field standards.
Spectators will appreciate accessibility enhancements to the grandstand that include a ramp, viewing spaces for wheelchair users and railings. Vibrant paint provides a fresh look for the seating area and complements the track colour.
“The Masich Place Redevelopment Project was a true partnership among multiple levels of government,” said Lyn Hall, Mayor of Prince George. “On behalf of the City of Prince George, I wish to thank Northern Development for joining that partnership and helping the City, the Province of BC, and the Federal Government to breathe new life into this important sporting facility. Together, we have built an exciting new legacy for sport development in the entire region.”
Since re-opening in August, usage of the stadium has increased 60 per cent. The University of Northern British Columbia Timberwolves soccer teams are now regular users of the field and have hosted numerous games on the outdoor field. Other user groups include School District 57, Prince George Road Runners, Prince George Minor Football Association and Prince George Track and Field Club. The 400m track is open to the public every day for up to 15 hours, dependent on bookings. Having a public area where anyone can exercise at no charge is a win for residents.
Use of the updated space is expected to continue as Prince George hosts the 2022 B.C. Summer Games. From July 21-24, 2022 up to 2,800 young athletes will compete in 18 sports at various venues. Benefits from the event will include an estimated $2 million in economic impact, inspiration for young athletes and a strengthened community spirit as hundreds of volunteers work together to welcome B.C.’s best young athletes. Prince George hosted the B.C. Summer Games in 1990, the same year that Masich Place Stadium (formerly known as Massey Place Stadium) opened for the first time.
Northern Development granted $250,000 in funding for this project. Other sources of funding came from the Union of British Columbia Municipalities Federal Gas Tax Strategic Priorities Fund and the City of Prince George’s Capital Expenditure Plan.
