BMO Field construction thread

[KurtLarSUN]

Reminder, I'm heading to BMO Field this afternoon. Any questions or things you want me to look for? Let me know here or on Twitter @KurtLarSUN ...

[mistercorporate]

Reminder, I'm heading to BMO Field this afternoon. Any questions or things you want me to look for? Let me know here or on Twitter @KurtLarSUN ...

Nothing specific to the field but I'm curious if MLSE is planning on taking a Barcelona-light strategy whereby they reinvest their Leafs/Raptors profits into TFC to grow its revenue generating abilities over the long term so that one day it may be just as large if not the largest sports revenue source.

[Red CB Toronto]

Here are what the two little stands in the north end look like, wonder if it will be someting similar to fill in the first 6 row in the south end.

https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpt1/t31.0-8/13173392_489510387909417_8273284903048471871_o.jpg

[Pint]

Here are what the two little stands in the north end look like, wonder if it will be someting similar to fill in the first 6 row in the south end.

https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpt1/t31.0-8/13173392_489510387909417_8273284903048471871_o.jpg

Those look a little more premium than they will give us on the south. Although if the base is the same metal material i can see us being able to make lots of noise on it.

[Globetrotter]

Wouldn't they just keep rows 1-XXXXX in the south, and if they add a few rows field level, call it A,B,C,D... I can't seem them shifting all of our seats down. Maybe I misread as I showed up late...


Also, doesn't the new roof kinda seem like a cheap umbrella that someone is holding really high above your head? It's only pictures at this point, but I'm curious to see what impact that has on the south. A bit of misty rain is one thing, a new giant wind tunnel is another. Eep!

[Red CB Toronto]

Here is a view from the south end.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ChnXN1xWMAAKRw1.jpg:large

[GabrielHurl]

https://twitter.com/torontofc/status/727849527105949696

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ChnXN1xWMAAKRw1.jpg:large

[Red CB Toronto]

As per Jeff Bradley's tweet capaticty is now 30,226.

[GabrielHurl]

https://twitter.com/ryanwhitacre/media

http://i.imgur.com/Np75jxD.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/p4l2CBc.jpg

[Pint]

Was in BMO last night briefly and I will say that the roof on the southend doesn't appear to be as high as it looks in pictures.

Still high but not as bad as in person.

[ronzilla]

I was expecting it to look much better. Too many big gaps. Maybe there's final touches still in the works.

[Ivy]

Here is a view from the south end.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ChnXN1xWMAAKRw1.jpg:large
I see that rail that Ryan was referring to, in the front of the stand, is now gone.

[OgtheDim]

That view from the East side = classic stadium view

[ronzilla]

Record year attendance?

https://twitter.com/KurtLarSUN/status/727532439950618624

[Red CB Toronto]

Record year attendance?

https://twitter.com/KurtLarSUN/status/727532439950618624

Man this is going to be fun, the place will be rocking !!! Seems just like yesterday despite all these years past we were at BMO Field for the first time.

http://cache4.asset-cache.net/gc/75553622-toronto-fc-forward-danny-dichio-chases-the-gettyimages.jpg?v=1&c=IWSAsset&k=2&d=9QMziWNtBI6whP66vhs4oeCOzSxEKARBv3Bga9vO6D8qhIxI VImYS5DEGulWzlMK1lq3RGDC9zbOiIbjLrSgmA%3D%3D

[Areathrasher]

Bar the Whitecaps game, all of the games up to DC visiting on July 23rd are showing as "Not Many Left"

[Red CB Toronto]

Here are the seats for the south end outside the stadiun waiting to be be put.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Chn4osEWMAANah2.jpg:large

[Red CB Toronto]

The Lines were painted onto the pitch last night.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Chn6MEVVEAEubob.jpg:large

[Kaz]

Record year attendance?

https://twitter.com/KurtLarSUN/status/727532439950618624


Last year we only have 10 games over 2014 capacity and only 3 games of 30k

If we have 4 games over 30k in the first 5 and nearly all games over 25k I think we can say this will be a good good year for TFC. (at least BMO)

Now if we could only start scoring at a championship team rate.

[Ultra & Proud]

The Lines were painted onto the pitch last night.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Chn6MEVVEAEubob.jpg:large
Not sure about the north end by this pic. Looks more barren than I expected. I assume by Saturday there will be kiosks, booths, and the BBQ thing there to make it seem fuller. Back in the days of old I thought the north end was alright. In year one before I got in a decent section and had my two seats together I went down there to watch and it was alright as a big patio. Hit it a few times in recent years when some extra friends bought tickets and it was shit under that stand. Hopefully it fills in nicely.

Looking forward to this new sound system.

[mistercorporate]

Last year we only have 10 games over 2014 capacity and only 3 games of 30k

If we have 4 games over 30k in the first 5 and nearly all games over 25k I think we can say this will be a good good year for TFC. (at least BMO)

Now if we could only start scoring at a championship team rate.

I wouldn't read too much into the ticketing system. The home opener should be sold out but there appear to be plenty of tickets available on the page for the other "not many left" matches. Regardless, looks healthier than last year but it will take time before we consistently sellout most games at this significantly expanded new stadium.

[Red CB Toronto]

Blue inside the stadium, the doors to the Argos locker room.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Chn-WfbWwAA0itC.jpg:large

[Red CB Toronto]

Turf meets grass.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ChoIF3KWEAAQEN_.jpg:large

[ryan]

Just leaving BMO now.

My fears can rest. South end front rows will be similar to north end but will latch on to the main stand. The fence will not be present so we're all good.

[eustacchio]

Just leaving BMO now.

My fears can rest. South end front rows will be similar to north end but will latch on to the main stand. The fence will not be present so we're all good.

Thank you, sir!

[Red CB Toronto]

Just leaving BMO now.

My fears can rest. South end front rows will be similar to north end but will latch on to the main stand. The fence will not be present so we're all good.

Does the stand run right down to field level, thus making a capo stand not practical?

[Fort York Redcoat]

Turf meets grass.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ChoIF3KWEAAQEN_.jpg:large
http://33.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lzkb3dhA8A1qj4y5f.gif

[Pint]

Does the stand run right down to field level, thus making a capo stand not practical?

Capo stands will be in place on saturday

[ronzilla]

Credit should go to Kurt Larson for those pics.

[ryan]

Does the stand run right down to field level, thus making a capo stand not practical?

No issue, they should be roughly the same height as we're used to.

[ryan]

As for timing, they said they were shooting for Friday at Noon to allow staff in for setup, but with safety gear. So I wonder if the team will see the pitch at all before the match.

Also, 2nd week of June all construction should be wrapped up. The Argos locker room and other stadium details will be getting worked on until then.

[Red CB Toronto]

Via ou main man Kurt

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ChoX7RcUYAABroH.jpg:large

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ChoXESBVIAApuwE.jpg:large

[Thomas]

I know that others have mentioned that the roof is higher up than they expected....but I am still optimistic that the sound of the crowd will be considerably louder because of it. I can't wait for the match, and I am really looking forward to the singing of our National Anthem and hearing the fans loud and clear.

[C.Ronaldo]

Via ou main man Kurt



https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ChoXESBVIAApuwE.jpg:large

Those are FANCY!

[GabrielHurl]

and expensive

[Phil]

Not blue either. Hopefully some of the conspiracy theories will calm a bit.

[Pint]

It would be hard to jump on those... don't like lol

[GabrielHurl]

Not blue either. Hopefully some of the conspiracy theories will calm a bit.

where's the fun in that? g:D

[OgtheDim]

Not blue either. Hopefully some of the conspiracy theories will calm a bit.

Only until people look a their SSH scarf and then it will all come back. :)

[Onyx]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ChoXESBVIAApuwE.jpg:large

Those are FANCY!

yes, those are nice seats.
how much are the north end seats BTW? anyone know?

Looks like bucket style is going in south end


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Chn4osEWMAANah2.jpg:large

[Captain]

Only until people look a their SSH scarf and then it will all come back. :)

Nope - I cut off that blue tassel. It's my silent protest to the Argos invading. (Really I don't care if they're there as long as the pitch looks good.)

Stadium looks great. So excited for Saturday. Can't wait.

[Onyx]

I wouldn't read too much into the ticketing system. The home opener should be sold out but there appear to be plenty of tickets available on the page for the other "not many left" matches. Regardless, looks healthier than last year but it will take time before we consistently sellout most games at this significantly expanded new stadium.

a few weeks ago they suddenly increased their holdback on all the games thru the summer on ticketmaster. Look at the 3-4 fall games if you want to see what seats they haven't sold to SSH. There is a discussion on this in the sellout thread.

[FRANKIE65]

yes, those are nice seats.
how much are the north end seats BTW? anyone know?

Looks like bucket style is going in south end


https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Chn4osEWMAANah2.jpg:large

Bucket is fine with me. Hell, I don't care if they just put an X marks the spot, we don't sit in them anyways.

[Onyx]

Bucket is fine with me. Hell, I don't care if they just put an X marks the spot, we don't sit in them anyways.

if they had to spend $ on these crappy things, why didn't they buy those german safe standing seats that all the supporters want

[redcard]

if they had to spend $ on these crappy things, why didn't they buy those german safe standing seats that all the supporters want

But if they put all safe standing seats in the south...i am sure the Argos fans wouldnt like that....

[Onyx]

But if they put all safe standing seats in the south...i am sure the Argos fans wouldnt like that....

doesn't effect the permanent seating ... talking about the first 6 rows that are now temporary in the south. They could have made people happy. instead they buy the cheapest shit they could find.

[OgtheDim]

if they had to spend $ on these crappy things, why didn't they buy those german safe standing seats that all the supporters want

I seem to remember this came up at the meeting with SSH's in March 2014 before the DCU game and the MLSE guy in charge (Hunter?) had no clue what safe standing was.

[KurtLarSUN]

My latest from BMO Field. Includes the latest photos and video from inside the stadium Wednesday. And, my column: http://www.torontosun.com/2016/05/04/the-new-bmo-field-culmination-of-tim-leiwekes-dream

[troy1982]

Reminder, I'm heading to BMO Field this afternoon. Any questions or things you want me to look for? Let me know here or on Twitter @KurtLarSUN ...

Did you ask them what the long term plans for the North end are?

[KurtLarSUN]

Did you ask them what the long term plans for the North end are?

It's in the story if you go down to the "questions answered" part.

[ensco]

^Nice column. Glad to read a positive review of "The Big Top".

[GabrielHurl]

So as for that question about the SE corner - hopefully this answers it once and for all

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7683/26550313670_92899a48be_h.jpg

There's a shit-ton more here - http://urbantoronto.ca/forum/threads/toronto-bmo-field-renovations-m-s-mlse-gensler.8777/page-64

[KurtLarSUN]

So as for that question about the SE corner - hopefully this answers it once and for all

https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7683/26550313670_92899a48be_h.jpg

There's a shit-ton more here - http://urbantoronto.ca/forum/threads/toronto-bmo-field-renovations-m-s-mlse-gensler.8777/page-64 (http://urbantoronto.ca/forum/threads/toronto-bmo-field-renovations-m-s-mlse-gensler.8777/page-64)

I was told today there could be Argos signage in this area of the stadium next year.

[Toronto Ruffrider]

It makes sense to have bucket seats for the removable seats in the south end because they will blend in with the rest of the seating in that stand. I'm really curious how this stand will look with the temp seats back in - if it looks they way it did originally, then well done in this respect.

As for the north end, it looks way too spartan. I would be happy if 10-15 rows of temp seating were added for TFC games - all of the way across the north end, with no gaps.

[Onyx]

I seem to remember this came up at the meeting with SSH's in March 2014 before the DCU game and the MLSE guy in charge (Hunter?) had no clue what safe standing was.

honestly, thats embarrassing.

[sn0re]

I was told today there could be Argos signage in this area of the stadium next year.

It would the same like the TFC one!? Or will the banner just be there on CFL game day?

[Red CB Toronto]

Was down at the Marlies game tonight and circled BMO, looks amazing up close. Has a true footy feel to it. Was even more amazing when I came out and the lights were on.

[james]

https://twitter.com/ryanwhitacre/media

http://i.imgur.com/Np75jxD.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/p4l2CBc.jpg


Love the Pictures!

[KurtLarSUN]

It would the same like the TFC one!? Or will the banner just be there on CFL game day?

I don't think they've decided. These things change month to month or year to year.

As I wrote in today's Sun, there will be a large banner/sign atop the northwest super column this season.

I was told there could be more signage elsewhere on the outside of the stadium.

Still, I don't think it's that bad. Seems like 95% or more of stadium will remain red when Argos aren't playing.

[ensco]

I think it's a shame Leiweke isn't around for this.

The hyperbole would be set on 11.

[Red CB Toronto]

I don't think they've decided. These things change month to month or year to year.

As I wrote in today's Sun, there will be a large banner/sign atop the northwest super column this season.

I was told there could be more signage elsewhere on the outside of the stadium.

Still, I don't think it's that bad. Seems like 95% or more of stadium will remain red when Argos aren't playing.

I would have no problem with Grey Cup banners hanging. A teams Championsips being reconized is no issue. The reality is teams share stadiums and retired numbers, banners etc will be there.

[Red CB Toronto]

An aerial view

https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13178982_489894417871014_697986717186255280_n.jpg? oh=103eeb486381c4ca572f948035053fdf&oe=57A8D031

[Fort York Redcoat]

if they had to spend $ on these crappy things, why didn't they buy those german safe standing seats that all the supporters want


doesn't effect the permanent seating ... talking about the first 6 rows that are now temporary in the south. They could have made people happy. instead they buy the cheapest shit they could find.

You seem to answer you're own question here. And you're not wrong. The only drawback is storage shortage but there is a fix for that as well.

[Fort York Redcoat]

But if they put all safe standing seats in the south...i am sure the Argos fans wouldnt like that....

There is an even more expensive product that has it all. Retracts AND has a seat that folds down (for Argos fans because where would we be without them).

[Areathrasher]

One thing I don't understand with the renos.

How hasn't that new elevator in the west stand been finished yet? They've been working on it since the renos began :lol:

[ronzilla]

Looks like a do-it-yourself Roof Kit from Canadian Tire :D

[Fort York Redcoat]

I seem to remember this came up at the meeting with SSH's in March 2014 before the DCU game and the MLSE guy in charge (Hunter?) had no clue what safe standing was.


honestly, thats embarrassing.

Well it didn't come up much at skydome or NA much so by the next meeting with supporters he'd explored the options. His background isn't footy. I wouldn't have expected him to know it all. Still incredibly disappointed in the surface decision he made.

[Fort York Redcoat]

I would have no problem with Grey Cup banners hanging. A teams Championsips being reconized is no issue. The reality is teams share stadiums and retired numbers, banners etc will be there.

I think Onyx's quote works better here.


honestly, thats embarrassing.

[Justin10000]

^^Yeah.. No Grey Cup banners. Fuck the Grey Cup.

It's a pity that the South End roof was installed so high just to accommodate temporary seating for non TFC events.

[Red CB Toronto]

^^Yeah.. No Grey Cup banners. Fuck the Grey Cup.

It's a pity that the South End roof was installed so high just to accommodate temporary seating for non TFC events.

Thats the economics of spending the money they did, its the new reality of BMO Field. Plus in the long run if TFC does take off they have more room to add even more seats. But in the short term, the Winter Classic, Grey Cups are the events that will help pay for this renovation. Saturday can not come soon enough. I am looking forward to seeing BMO from the inside with my own eyes.

[Amir FC]

Where is our "wall of honour"? Used to be right below the reporters section/rooms!!!

[Red CB Toronto]

Its about to get real, The Reds will be training tonight at BMO for the first time if anyone is down there around 6-6:30 tonight. It will give them the opportunity to get a feel for it under the lights, especially for Clint Irwin.

[Red CB Toronto]

You can see some of the first few rows in place for the south end.

https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13177901_501964453345580_8084830327166085655_n.jpg ?oh=7fea034251e915c04bb79b3732a95f08&oe=57E0154C

[keebler38]

Anyone know what the plan is to recover all those crazy high shots on goal that ended up in the second deck of the old North end seats? Anyone else feel sorry for or see a fitness requirement for those having to run to recover those balls ?

[Chevy]

Looks awesome, however it also looks like the roof coverage will be far less than 100% of the seating (seems like a quarter of the lower deck seats will be uncovered

See St. James' park below for reference

http://i46.tinypic.com/14d287l.png

[zeelaw]

Interesting... https://twitter.com/ArmenBedakian/status/728219275559882752
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ChsnZbcXAAQz2L1.jpg

[Fort York Redcoat]

Thats the economics of spending the money they did, its the new reality of BMO Field. Plus in the long run if TFC does take off they have more room to add even more seats. But in the short term, the Winter Classic, Grey Cups are the events that will help pay for this renovation.

http://assets.bwbx.io/images/iwTUa_hUmFmA/v1/-1x-1.jpg

Cost, you say?

[flatpicker]

Looks awesome, however it also looks like the roof coverage will be far less than 100% of the seating (seems like a quarter of the lower deck seats will be uncovered



I think it only appears that way in the photo.
Pretty sure the roof extends as far as the first row.

[Red CB Toronto]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Chs6ab0UgAEEe0-.jpg:large

[Red CB Toronto]

Another kickass pic of BMO at night, from the southend. These are truely some amazing pics taken by Tomas.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ChsOTGQWsAA1P3A.jpg:large

[Red4ever]

http://assets.bwbx.io/images/iwTUa_hUmFmA/v1/-1x-1.jpg

Cost, you say?
Hahahaha

The roof is too damn high.

[Red CB Toronto]

From TFC Twitter

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ChtJj-TXAAAHN4O.jpg:large

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ChtM0rJXAAEojXl.jpg:large

[SoccMan2]

You know what if they would have built a proper roof on all four sides and we had a proper fully enclosed stadium, then I would have sucked it up and accepted the Argos sharing the stadium, however we have a half assed roof withe these crazy big gaps on two sides exspecially, we still have a stadium that is much too open and we now have the Argos too, so therefore, I will still not accept the Argos at BMO and the fucken Grey Cup too, they could have made this stadium look so much better instead this is the final product with the Argos thrown in too, sorry big fail, you want to see some real nice looking stadiums the way they should look with proper roofs, just have a look at the many stadiums in England even below the Premiership and you will see what real enclosed stadiums with roofs should look like not this thing.

[Ultra & Proud]

You know what if they would have built a proper roof on all four sides and we had a proper fully enclosed stadium, then I would have sucked it up and accepted the Argos sharing the stadium, however we have a half assed roof withe these crazy big gaps on two sides exspecially, we still have a stadium that is much too open and we now have the Argos too, so therefore, I will still not accept the Argos at BMO and the fucken Grey Cup too, they could have made this stadium look so much better instead this is the final product with the Argos thrown in too, sorry big fail, you want to see some real nice looking stadiums the way they should look with proper roofs, just have a look at the many stadiums in England even below the Premiership and you will see what real enclosed stadiums with roofs should look like not these thing!
Argos aside, there are a lot of stadiums in a lot of places that aren't England that are similar to what they've done here. I choose to wait until I have been right in there and see how it is in person. Could it be better? Sure. But is it better? Yes.

[zeelaw]

I'm beginning to agree with the idea of it needing to be enclosed. Especially if they are going for the traditional English stadium look. It looks kind of strange now.

[Kaz]

I've started to notice a few things.

if the original plan was to have retractable seating on either end to allow for a centred CFL field while also having the Video board moved so that you could put seats at either end zone to raise capacity, the fact that the Argos got a free pass into the stadium and no one wanted to pay is the reason that everything looks like it does. With the video board staying put you can't really put as many temp seats in for a CFL game and to get near the 35-38,000 number you have to put 8,000 instead of 4,000 seats in the south end forcing the Canopy to be higher.

As such.. you can all thank the Argos for this that south end roof that lighting that goes of the end of the stands and the general oddness. Every odd choice is basically the result of the Argos. It would be nice to see a Third phase with the full retractable north and south ends back roofs over both with the south roof being lowered by 1/3 it's current height and the Video Board being moved or adjusted to allow for temp seats in the North.

[Amir FC]

http://i63.tinypic.com/2dawujb.jpg

I'm sorry but it seems like BMO field will be shared more with Argos than TFC so they are not the second tenant, I didn’t see their logo at skydome. I am not excited what so ever about this new renovation and here are my reasons:

1- Argos Banner facing QEW will make people see the Argos logo, no one ever saw TFC logo.
2- Removing TFC logo from Billboard sign will help Argos fan not to see any TFC logos.
3- North Stand is gone and we play in a 3 sided stadium.
4- The Wall of Honour is gone just because Argos fans dont like to see any soccer signs.
5 - Who knows what's going to happen with the grass unit June comes around.

All theses because of some roof and lights? How do you justify? Please prove me wrong.

[Red CB Toronto]

The Wall of Honor is not gone, its getting a makeover.


I'm sorry but it seems like BMO field will be shared more with Argos than TFC so they are not the second tenant, I didn’t see their logo at skydome. I am not excited what so ever about this new renovation and here are my reasons:

1- Argos Banner facing QEW will make people see the Argos logo, no one ever saw TFC logo.
2- Removing TFC logo from Billboard sign will help Argos fan not to see any TFC logos.
3- North Stand is gone and we play in a 3 sided stadium.
4- The Wall of Honour is gone just because Argos fans dont like to see any soccer signs.
5 - Who knows what's going to happen with the grass unit June comes around.

All theses because of some roof and lights? How do you justify? Please prove me wrong.

[BelfastBoy]

"Argos Banner facing QEW will make people see the Argos logo, no one ever saw TFC logo."

From the Gardiner, driving into the city right now you see the large TFC logo.

They need to wait and see if anyone actually shows up for the Argos first, before they start putting up Argo signage.

[glaze]

So they admitted to lying about no Argos signage at BMO.
That TFC was primary tennant.
The Jays get to kick out the Argos by saying they were going to grass (not happening), we get stuck with the couch-surfers, and the deal keeps changing.
Signage going up wouldn't be an issue if MLSE hadn't promised there would be none.
How can we trust them now with anything else regarding the Argos? Specifically keeping a grass field? Painted logos on field, etc,

[Cas87]

I'm sorry but it seems like BMO field will be shared more with Argos than TFC so they are not the second tenant, I didn’t see their logo at skydome. I am not excited what so ever about this new renovation and here are my reasons:

1- Argos Banner facing QEW will make people see the Argos logo, no one ever saw TFC logo.
2- Removing TFC logo from Billboard sign will help Argos fan not to see any TFC logos.
3- North Stand is gone and we play in a 3 sided stadium.
4- The Wall of Honour is gone just because Argos fans dont like to see any soccer signs.
5 - Who knows what's going to happen with the grass unit June comes around.

All theses because of some roof and lights? How do you justify? Please prove me wrong.

1. Argos Banner
- News flash, a sign for them this year was coming whether people bitched about it or not. Just be glad that it isn't an Argo's logo made in the seats on the East stand with blue seats.

2. TFC logo off Billboard
- The back of the scoreboard in the North End now serves as the billboard for BMO field and other MLSE events, the billboard you pictured is now for Exhibition place and ads/sponsors in general

3. 3 sided stadium
- The FO has stated they want to try ans figure out a SJ/Blue Jays hybrid of bar/standing room area there. Just ran out of time in this particular phase and for Saturday in particular for something really fancy (may just be a couple of beer stands down there this weekend).

4. As CB has said, the Wall of Honour is getting a makeover, TBH it wasn't that good to look at originally, hopefully it is something better looking, like murals/banner for Dichio, Jimmy B and DeRo (hopefully), rather than looking like TFC bought jersey stickers and stuck them on a open piece of wall.

5. Come June its not going to be the 4 horsemen of the apocalypse riding down Lakeshore heading for BMO. From everything that has been invested, written about and seen so far, I am fairly optimistic that if anything does happen to the grass with the Argos, the back-up field would be there and installed with enough time before the next TFC game (average of a week in between the Argos and a TFC game come June)


Lets see what the 7th and 14th bring us when everyone can finally see BMO live and in more detail before everyone dresses up like Bart:
https://ratedzed.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/paranoid.jpg

[Chevy]

From the drawings it does in fact look like the roof covers all the seats. That original top-down photo is decieving.

http://photos.newswire.ca/images/20160220_C2205_PHOTO_EN_625255.jpg

[Red CB Toronto]

All the seats are covered directly above, those photos even if they are taken on a slight angle it will play tricks on you.


From the drawings it does in fact look like the roof covers all the seats. That original top-down photo is decieving.

http://photos.newswire.ca/images/20160220_C2205_PHOTO_EN_625255.jpg

[flambe]

I'm not getting the point of the roof if there isn't an enclosing wall, weather will just blow straight through.
As for the South End, that high roof just looks ridiculous IMHO.

Does anyone know if there are plans to build an enclosing wall?

[Fort York Redcoat]

1. Argos Banner
- News flash, a sign for them this year was coming whether people bitched about it or not. Just be glad that it isn't an Argo's logo made in the seats on the East stand with blue seats.

2. TFC logo off Billboard
- The back of the scoreboard in the North End now serves as the billboard for BMO field and other MLSE events, the billboard you pictured is now for Exhibition place and ads/sponsors in general

3. 3 sided stadium
- The FO has stated they want to try ans figure out a SJ/Blue Jays hybrid of bar/standing room area there. Just ran out of time in this particular phase and for Saturday in particular for something really fancy (may just be a couple of beer stands down there this weekend).

4. As CB has said, the Wall of Honour is getting a makeover, TBH it wasn't that good to look at originally, hopefully it is something better looking, like murals/banner for Dichio, Jimmy B and DeRo (hopefully), rather than looking like TFC bought jersey stickers and stuck them on a open piece of wall.

5. Come June its not going to be the 4 horsemen of the apocalypse riding down Lakeshore heading for BMO. From everything that has been invested, written about and seen so far, I am fairly optimistic that if anything does happen to the grass with the Argos, the back-up field would be there and installed with enough time before the next TFC game (average of a week in between the Argos and a TFC game come June)


Lets see what the 7th and 14th bring us when everyone can finally see BMO live and in more detail before everyone dresses up like Bart:


Be glad they didn't lie further. Awesome.

And the back up field has a whole week to set roots. Not heal up or fix patches, set. This doesn't happen anywhere else for a reason. And it's not a tin foil hat reason its standard.

But we get it. You trust them.

[Fort York Redcoat]

I'm not getting the point of the roof if there isn't an enclosing wall, weather will just blow straight through.
As for the South End, that high roof just looks ridiculous IMHO.

Does anyone know if there are plans to build an enclosing wall?

It's like an umbrella for the stadium. Nope. They're good with that.

[Onyx]

All the seats are covered directly above, those photos even if they are taken on a slight angle it will play tricks on you.

when i looked at it live its debatable whether row 1 on west side is covered when looking straight on ... but other than that covers all the seats (can't comment on the temporary seats in the south end whether they are under the roof)

... you will still get rained on in first 8 rows or so

[troy1982]

The Wall of Honor is not gone, its getting a makeover.

By make over do you mean, adding Argos items?

[flambe]

I feel a little cheated. Like when you see a hot girl on a dating site, get all excited only to find out she has taken some serious liberties with her profile pic.

[SoccMan2]

Of course they lied, but hey it's just part of doing business is it not ? This Hunter character did not know what a soccer ball was if it hit him in the head a few years ago now this is the guy in charge of overseeing that the stadium keeps it's soccer look, ya ok lol!

[flambe]

It's like an umbrella for the stadium. Nope. They're good with that.

So the temporary seats in the south end, are they going to be a permanent fixture, or will they only be put in place when the event requires it?

[OgtheDim]

By make over do you mean, adding Argos items?

Ti-Cat


OSKI WE WE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[General Woolfe]

I must be the only one who thinks the renos look a right mess. What is with the gap between the top of the seating and the roofs? The roofing should be tighter to the stands if its to provide any protection from the weather, especially so close to the lake. This is especially true of the south end. Do they really believe that dinky little piece of metal is going to either protect fans from the rain or increase the noise?

If this is the return for having to put up with both the Argos and artificial turf (which looks awful btw) id rather we had left the stadium as it was

[jazzy]

So the 2 front row seats on the east side at least are a charming blue......

[OgtheDim]

So the 2 front row seats on the east side at least are a charming blue......


Didn't stop Seba from doing this.



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TXTXecD3_o


BMO gotta BMO.

[reggie]

i hope we win saturday

[Initial B]

I'm curious: Having never been to an ACC game, can you tell that the Leafs/Raptors occupy the same building on nights the Raptors/Leafs play (such as division banners, etc)? Wouldn't it be something similar?

[Red CB Toronto]

I'm curious: Having never been to an ACC game, can you tell that the Leafs/Raptors occupy the same building on nights the Raptors/Leafs play (such as division banners, etc)? Wouldn't it be something similar?

Yes, every banner hangs in the rafters for both teams, just like at most arenas. From a stadium perspective there is only one stadium left for the time being anyways that houses both the NFL and Major League Baseball, Oakland.

[Red CB Toronto]

The Capo Stands waiting to find their home in front of the south end.

https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13164296_10209200595994792_5302017289715398384_n.j pg?oh=ae9e30d00dfba3eb9cd0dc76f4efc805&oe=579D4DFC

[StokeciTFC]

As has already been said, yes, the coexistence of both teams in the ACC is obvious both inside the arena and on the concourses outside.

Further to that, there seems to be very little, if any animosity between the two sets of fans. That's probably because neither really encroaches on or compromises the others identity. Additionally, very often a Raptors fan is also a Leafs fan at least in my (limited) experience.

It is strange that TFC fans and those of the Argos have such a deep loathing of each other and the team they support, which is due only to the shared stadium. Or is there a deeper reason? I don't know to be honest.

[OgtheDim]

..

It is strange that TFC fans and those of the Argos have such a deep loathing of each other and the team they support, which is due only to the shared stadium. Or is there a deeper reason? I don't know to be honest.


That's a question probably best for year old but still simmering along thread about the decision about the Argos. This one is about construction only, in theory.

[StokeciTFC]

That's a question probably best for year old but still simmering along thread about the decision about the Argos. This one is about construction only, in theory.

True, apologies to veer off topic.

[Pint]

The Capo Stands waiting to find their home in front of the south end.

https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13164296_10209200595994792_5302017289715398384_n.j pg?oh=ae9e30d00dfba3eb9cd0dc76f4efc805&oe=579D4DFC

Where are the damn cup holders.... more damn lies

[SoccMan2]

I would have been happy to have left the stadium the way it was if it meant keeping the Argos out! Like I mentioned earlier if the final product was a proper roof on all four sides with no gaps and still having a north stand but a proper north stand, if the final product was a stadium that was very similar to Liverpool's Anfield stadium then I would have no problem with the Argos coming in, however I will not accept the Argos and this big fail of renovations, this stadium renovation is a joke and we still have the Argos at BMO, what a waist of money!

[Onyx]

As has already been said, yes, the coexistence of both teams in the ACC is obvious both inside the arena and on the concourses outside.

Further to that, there seems to be very little, if any animosity between the two sets of fans. That's probably because neither really encroaches on or compromises the others identity. Additionally, very often a Raptors fan is also a Leafs fan at least in my (limited) experience.

It is strange that TFC fans and those of the Argos have such a deep loathing of each other and the team they support, which is due only to the shared stadium. Or is there a deeper reason? I don't know to be honest.

honestly i think the loathing is one way. Talked to a few football/argo fans about BMO during kids spring hockey on weekend, most aren't really aware of TFC/mls, one thought TFC played in CSL league, other two didn't really know any the issues. They are looking forward to football outside at BMO, two of them were "bouycotting" skydome last few years. One thing they said, just a massive hatred for Rogers ... one won't even buy anything Rogers name on it. Really happy new ownership bought the team as Braley was a terrible owner. Kinda oblivious of what is going on.

[OgtheDim]

honestly i think the loathing is one way.

Uh, no.

I have blocked about 10 CFL twitter trolls.

But, again, that's for another thread.

[German21]

So the 2 front row seats on the east side at least are a charming blue......

field side seating on the east side has been a BMO blue for at least a season if not two now. Nothing new.

[Onyx]

Uh, no.

I have blocked about 10 CFL twitter trolls.

But, again, that's for another thread.

thats just a handful of nuts ... evey fanbase has those
... i talking about joe average fan


anyways, more pictures please

[Onyx]

field side seating on the east side has been a BMO blue for at least a season if not two now. Nothing new.

yes, its BMO bank blue

[SkokoFC]

Everyone has to understand this is only phase 2 of construction for bmo field, its only been 10 years and we've already had a massive upgrade. We shouldn't be comparing ourselves to Liverpool, and even if our stadium was like Anfield it seems like people in this thread wouldn't be happy either, each side is different and each roof is a different height... you can go on and on, but it is a unique stadium with character just like ours is becoming, but will take many more phases to complete. Cheer on the team, bring the atmosphere which brings more fans out and in turn hopefully another expansion to close the gaps!!

[Onyx]

Everyone has to understand this is only phase 2 of construction for bmo field, its only been 10 years and we've already had a massive upgrade. We shouldn't be comparing ourselves to Liverpool, and even if our stadium was like Anfield it seems like people in this thread wouldn't be happy either, each side is different and each roof is a different height... you can go on and on, but it is a unique stadium with character just like ours is becoming, but will take many more phases to complete. Cheer on the team, bring the atmosphere which brings more fans out and in turn hopefully another expansion to close the gaps!!

please no more looooonnnnng roadtrips

[SkokoFC]

please no more looooonnnnng roadtrips

haha yea, hopefully now that the roof is on they can do any expansion while still playing at home

[Fort York Redcoat]

Of course they lied, but hey it's just part of doing business is it not ? This Hunter character did not know what a soccer ball was if it hit him in the head a few years ago now this is the guy in charge of overseeing that the stadium keeps it's soccer look, ya ok lol!

Don't let them off so easy. They lied and had all the input and feedback to choose to do the right thing the right way.

[Fort York Redcoat]

So the temporary seats in the south end, are they going to be a permanent fixture, or will they only be put in place when the event requires it?

Event.

[Fort York Redcoat]

I must be the only one who thinks the renos look a right mess. What is with the gap between the top of the seating and the roofs? The roofing should be tighter to the stands if its to provide any protection from the weather, especially so close to the lake. This is especially true of the south end. Do they really believe that dinky little piece of metal is going to either protect fans from the rain or increase the noise?

If this is the return for having to put up with both the Argos and artificial turf (which looks awful btw) id rather we had left the stadium as it was

You must be the only one who doesn't read previous pages. Seriously, General, there's been plenty of complaints about the Frankenstadium.;)

[Fort York Redcoat]

i hope we win saturday

Even to the sound of unfinished construction.

(Just bringing it back to topic g:D )

[Fort York Redcoat]

As has already been said, yes, the coexistence of both teams in the ACC is obvious both inside the arena and on the concourses outside.

Further to that, there seems to be very little, if any animosity between the two sets of fans. That's probably because neither really encroaches on or compromises the others identity. Additionally, very often a Raptors fan is also a Leafs fan at least in my (limited) experience.

It is strange that TFC fans and those of the Argos have such a deep loathing of each other and the team they support, which is due only to the shared stadium. Or is there a deeper reason? I don't know to be honest.

Stokeci, Raptors fans were so new and happy to get their own arena after playing in Skydome there was minimal disappointment when the biggest team in town got in on the action.

Also both sports have groundshare commonplace through the continent. This doesn't mean one can't find complaints from fans and players about rough conversions from one sport to another but it's regarded as something to tolerate.

The rest of your question on animosity would be in the Argos to BMO thread. Copious discussion there on the subject.

[Joe Kool]

I found it funny that in the Kurt Larson interview with Hunter that Hunter says because they were in the top 5 for money spent on the stadium then that makes our stadium in the top 5 for venues in MLS. Just because you spent the money doesn't guarantee you that accolade. I guess I will wait to see it in person tomorrow since I have not been down there since the end of last season but going by the pictures it doesn't have that top 5 appeal in my opinion. I still think Red Bull Arena is tops but not sure where I would rate others. I haven't been to too many MLS stadiums so I guess hard for me to judge just from TV broadcasts. Any RPB road warriors want to take a stab at the top 5 stadiums in MLS? Are we one of them like Bob says?

[Fort York Redcoat]

IMO when building or refurbishing stadiums if one needs accolades one needs to be THE best stadium when its done since the next one built will almost outshine it.

Agree on RB Arena. Although it balances out being in Jersey.:ack2:

[KurtLarSUN]

I found it funny that in the Kurt Larson interview with Hunter that Hunter says because they were in the top 5 for money spent on the stadium then that makes our stadium in the top 5 for venues in MLS. Just because you spent the money doesn't guarantee you that accolade. I guess I will wait to see it in person tomorrow since I have not been down there since the end of last season but going by the pictures it doesn't have that top 5 appeal in my opinion. I still think Red Bull Arena is tops but not sure where I would rate others. I haven't been to too many MLS stadiums so I guess hard for me to judge just from TV broadcasts. Any RPB road warriors want to take a stab at the top 5 stadiums in MLS? Are we one of them like Bob says?

I've been to a lot of soccer-first MLS stadiums. My opinion: Red Bull Arena and Children's Mercy Park are still nicer venues, but Toronto FC is firmly in the conversation for third-place alongside StubHub Center and, eventually, Orlando City's new stadium. Portland is cool, but turf.

If I were to rank MLS stadiums right now all things considered...

1) Children's Mercy Park
2) Red Bull Arena
3) BMO Field
4) StubHub Center
5) Providence Park
6) Dick's Sporting Goods Park

...

[Fort York Redcoat]

^Wow. That's praise. I though Rio Tinto would be there for how much I hear its name.

[KurtLarSUN]

^Wow. That's praise. I though Rio Tinto would be there for how much I hear its name.

I've never been, but it strikes me as a pretty boring, cookie-cutter MLS stadium. Much like Chicago's.

[Pint]

RBNY, SJ, KC are all clearly ahead of BMO... hell SJ actually has safe standing for supporters.

Orlando is going to be awesome when it is built so within 2 years we may be borderline 5th in MLS while giving up the title of soccer specific.

Congrats TL at least it worked out better than KC's hockey arena.

[KurtLarSUN]

RBNY, SJ, KC are all clearly ahead of BMO... hell SJ actually has safe standing for supporters.

Orlando is going to be awesome when it is built so within 2 years we may be borderline 5th in MLS while giving up the title of soccer specific.

Congrats TL at least it worked out better than KC's hockey arena.


San Jose? I don't know, man. Is that even made of concrete? Looks very MLS 2.0.

In terms of the "soccer specific" thing. I still believe BMO is specific to soccer. I mean, they play football games at Children's Mercy, too. Almost every stadium in North America is multi-purpose with a principle tenant.

[Pint]

San Jose? I don't know, man. Is that even made of concrete? Looks very MLS 2.0.

In terms of the "soccer specific" thing. I still believe BMO is specific to soccer. I mean, they play football games at Children's Mercy, too. Almost every stadium in North America is multi-purpose with a principle tenant.

They have a full roof on 3 sides and the fact that MLSE has looked to them for what to do on the north end says, for a stadium with an open side they have set the standard for what to do. I wouldn't expect you to get it but safe standing is a huge asset for supporters and something that has been an ask from us all along the way with the renovation but clearly those asks fell on deaf ears. With the back of the south open the rigging going in will be extremely hard to use and potentially very cost restrictive for supporters to do a large tifo.

[Ultra & Proud]

I found it funny that in the Kurt Larson interview with Hunter that Hunter says because they were in the top 5 for money spent on the stadium then that makes our stadium in the top 5 for venues in MLS. Just because you spent the money doesn't guarantee you that accolade.

That was based on the full reno and I believe that money number. They must have spent a ton of cash on those 3 fancy new 'clubs' in BMO. Those were not cheap. Of course the canopies and sound system too but they did spend a lot on back room stuff and on cosmetic trinkets.

I agree it's a Frankenstadium but anyone who expected anything else wasn't paying attention. Like what did you expect? To do a full "English" enclosed stadium you would have had to demo the north, south, and west sides and basically start from scratch. We'd have been playing this season and probably most of the next one in the Dome. Like I said before, if I stay dry in typical BMO rain, if my skull doesn't fry in July, and if my season ticket doesn't start jumping up 35% a year in costs then I am not complaining about the actual stadium. The Argos are a different story but there will hundreds of posts covering dozens of pages about that for the next foreseeable forever.

[Fort York Redcoat]

In terms of the "soccer specific" thing. I still believe BMO is specific to soccer. I mean, they play football games at Children's Mercy, too. Almost every stadium in North America is multi-purpose with a principle tenant.

Sounds pretty special to have had a stadium with no gridiron in it. I'll remember it fondly.

[Borga]

principle tenant.

I'm gonna be that guy. Sorry. But I noticed it in your article, too - principal, not principle.

[KurtLarSUN]

They have a full roof on 3 sides and the fact that MLSE has looked to them for what to do on the north end says, for a stadium with an open side they have set the standard for what to do. I wouldn't expect you to get it but safe standing is a huge asset for supporters and something that has been an ask from us all along the way with the renovation but clearly those asks fell on deaf ears. With the back of the south open the rigging going in will be extremely hard to use and potentially very cost restrictive for supporters to do a large tifo.

My understanding is they've sorted the Tifo stuff for June.

In terms of "safe standing" ... It's not something I've looked into, but I'm guessing they'd rather sell seats rather than GA.

In terms of the north end, MLSE admits they ran out of time to improve it. I expect it to look much different in the coming years with party decks and outdoor bars.

[KurtLarSUN]

They have a full roof on 3 sides and the fact that MLSE has looked to them for what to do on the north end says, for a stadium with an open side they have set the standard for what to do. I wouldn't expect you to get it but safe standing is a huge asset for supporters and something that has been an ask from us all along the way with the renovation but clearly those asks fell on deaf ears. With the back of the south open the rigging going in will be extremely hard to use and potentially very cost restrictive for supporters to do a large tifo.

I just flat out don't like San Jose's design, with expensive suites lining the touch line. Looks bad on TV, in my opinion.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

My 5 cents (sorry, no more pennies in Canada!), I am happy to know that MLSE has shown their dedication to the growth of soccer in Toronto. This project didn't have to happen. They don't owe us jack. Many fail to accept that much like going to a play, or a movie, we are paying to attend a sporting performance event. We are not owed anything, just as those who didn't like the latest Star Wars film are not "owed" anything by LucasFilm (Disney).

This is the stadium we have, and it has come a hell of a long way. A fully surrounded stadium would not be possible without knocking down what's there. The footings required simply could not be put in place, unless someone simply wants to build a fortress over and around the existing structure. Depending how the wind blows, yeah, some will still get a bit wet, and some will still get some sun.

I love it, my girl loves it. I'm thrilled to know soccer is firmly here to stay. Pat me down, grab my balls, just let me through the gates; it's game time!

[OgtheDim]

This tweet by Rollins bugs the shit out of me

https://twitter.com/24thminute/status/728582089474506752


The concrete all over has significant water damage.

There was so much water pooling on the East side they used pictures of that for 3 seasons in the "why call stadium services" thing before the game.

The canopies attempt to remedy that and thus are objectively a good thing.

The South concourse is objectively a good thing.

The East concourse is objectively a good thing.

The canopies, imperfect as they are, are objectively better then the situation before and thus a good thing..

Having more seats is objectively a good thing.

Of course that brings in more revenue. There is no such thing as a free lunch.



But, hey, its not as pure as the first years and the money could have been spent somewhere else so therefore its not what should be. Damned if I know where they'd spend $140 million given how much money they are throwing around the academy and up at KIA but that's beside the point. Its not 2007 for some therefore it can't be good.

Nobody is happy about the potential for the field to be torn up by the Argos. And I would much prefer this stadium not have them as a tenant.



But this whole trying to get back to what was thing has to stop.



2007 - 2010 Great years. Lots of fun. Lot of shit happened then and between then and now. Shouldn't be forgotten.

Its not then anymore.

2016 is here and we got a decent MLS stadium. And that has value to the fans.


Stop moaning about the existence of this reno. It happened. Criticise the result. But don't tell me that what has been built has no freaking value to the fans.


************


The upgrade to BMO V2.1 rolls out tomorrow

I suggest people download it and figure out the bugs and features themselves

[Pint]

My understanding is they've sorted the Tifo stuff for June.

In terms of "safe standing" ... It's not something I've looked into, but I'm guessing they'd rather sell seats rather than GA.

In terms of the north end, MLSE admits they ran out of time to improve it. I expect it to look much different in the coming years with party decks and outdoor bars.

They have sorted the rigging... the stadium design makes the entire thing extremely complicated, costly and risky. i.e. we do a tifo for a particular game that really wouldn't work vs another opponent or on a different day but the wind is too high making the load that the rigging or material exceed capabilities, well SG's would then have spent 1,000's of dollars and hundreds of hours for nothing.

Still sell "Seats" but they don't need to be used, provides more space and can still be used for other events.

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/16/Rail_seats_in_Klagenfurt,_Austria.JPG

I'm sure the north end will end up being a fun time for the crowd that would gravitate to that kind of atmosphere, much like the bud patio before the game it isn't for the supporters.

Maybe my opinion of Avaya will change after I see it live in july but for now it has more supporter and soccer specific features than BMO and I would take it over BMO.

[ryan]

This tweet by Rollins bugs the shit out of me

https://twitter.com/24thminute/status/728582089474506752



I don't get the comment really. These decisions generate more revenue, while they are taking their profits (omg noes how dare they!), we have a pretty nice fucking roster these days no?

[mistercorporate]

Yeah, clearly a lack of logic with that one.

[Red CB Toronto]

I don't get the comment really. These decisions generate more revenue, while they are taking their profits (omg noes how dare they!), we have a pretty nice fucking roster these days no?

Completely agree, everything they have done is based on increasing revnue streams, which in the long run is better for everyone.

[Pint]

Ill defend Duane for a second... what have we gained in the southend? a canopy that may keep a little sound in but provides little protection.

The upgrades were done to increase top end revenue streams and allow for other events, cool i don't mind that as long as they are the ones that pay for the upgrades but lets not pretend that these upgrades were for your average TFC supporter.

[StokeciTFC]

Ill defend Duane for a second... what have we gained in the southend? a canopy that may keep a little sound in but provides little protection.

The upgrades were done to increase top end revenue streams and allow for other events, cool i don't mind that as long as they are the ones that pay for the upgrades but lets not pretend that these upgrades were for your average TFC supporter.

so we've gained a little here and a little there. Now two littles may not add up to being a lot, but it is still something. Ie, a gain is a gain is a gain.

we have to recognize that the stadium is still work in progress and will be for some time. It's still incomplete but it's more complete than it was last year and we are seeing provisions made for future success and ergo, future expansion.

[Pint]

so we've gained a little here and a little there. Now two littles may not add up to being a lot, but it is still something. Ie, a gain is a gain is a gain.

we have to recognize that the stadium is still work in progress and will be for some time. It's still incomplete but it's more complete than it was last year and we are seeing provisions made for future success and ergo, future expansion.

We have had a couple small gains and a couple set backs. It is what it is but the major additions to the stadium were made for others, not for us and describing it any other way would be disingenuous.

[ryan]

Ill defend Duane for a second... what have we gained in the southend? a canopy that may keep a little sound in but provides little protection.

The upgrades were done to increase top end revenue streams and allow for other events, cool i don't mind that as long as they are the ones that pay for the upgrades but lets not pretend that these upgrades were for your average TFC supporter.


What has the south end gained?

-The roof that you claim provides little protection will cover at least half the seats IMO, I've stood under it many times already. I think your assessment isn't accurate.
-This same roof will provide us rigging for banners in the near future, something we've wanted
-A concourse to help with congestion
-New lighting and sound system stadium wide
-If we want to talk the whole reno project, the 8000 fans that now sit in the upper east side are something I don't mind having. More fans more noise. More fans more revenue. More revenue, more MVP caliber players.

Are we being cynical, ignorant or what? You can cry about what the intentions for these items were, but we're benefiting from having them, cannot be denied.

[Red CB Toronto]

Ill defend Duane for a second... what have we gained in the southend? a canopy that may keep a little sound in but provides little protection.

The upgrades were done to increase top end revenue streams and allow for other events, cool i don't mind that as long as they are the ones that pay for the upgrades but lets not pretend that these upgrades were for your average TFC supporter.

But at the end of the day it gives us a team that includes Seba, The General and Jozy. Anyone who thinks we would have such a squad if things were still like they were a few years back is nuts. At the end of the day, it is what it is. As far as I am concerend as long as the grass is green and in good shape all is good. Sports and the 21st century is all about producing as much renenue as you can, simple as that.

[StokeciTFC]

We have had a couple small gains and a couple set backs. It is what it is but the major additions to the stadium were made for others, not for us and describing it any other way would be disingenuous.

i have to disagree. I generally like the appearance of the latest upgrade and have a positive outlook for it's and our future. I can see where there is a lot of room for improvement but in general, I see the upgrade as a good thing with positives that outweigh the negatives.

The major upgrades are canopies on three sides, the only reason for which is to provide a degree of protection from the elements for those that sit beneath it. If, over the course of a season, more TFC fans sit beneath it and enjoy that degree of cover or increased atmosphere than any other set of fans, then the improvements have catered mainly for TFC fans.

[Red CB Toronto]

What has the south end gained?

-The roof that you claim provides little protection will cover at least half the seats IMO, I've stood under it many times already. I think your assessment isn't accurate.
-This same roof will provide us rigging for banners in the near future, something we've wanted
-A concourse to help with congestion
-New lighting and sound system stadium wide
-If we want to talk the whole reno project, the 8000 fans that now sit in the upper east side are something I don't mind having. More fans more noise. More fans more revenue. More revenue, more MVP caliber players.

Are we being cynical, ignorant or what? You can cry about what the intentions for these items were, but we're benefiting from having them, cannot be denied.

We would not have the pleasure of enjoying Seba week in, week out if it were not for this renovation, simple as that. Just walking around it the other day has gotten me excited for tomorrow to see BMO full,loud and rocking under these new lights.

[Red CB Toronto]

The BMO Field re-opening ceremony will be broadcast on Sportsnet 360 and on Sportsnet.ca

http://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/watch-live-grand-re-opening-bmo-field/

[Pint]

What has the south end gained?

-The roof that you claim provides little protection will cover at least half the seats IMO, I've stood under it many times already. I think your assessment isn't accurate. So have I, it won't protect us in the rain or wind
-This same roof will provide us rigging for banners in the near future, something we've wanted. Due to the roof the rigging will be very tough to use
-A concourse to help with congestion Sure but i still see most go to the main level, that concourse in underutilized and any suggestions for it have been ignored.
-New lighting and sound system stadium wide Cool, but really who cares about the sound system
-If we want to talk the whole reno project, the 8000 fans that now sit in the upper east side are something I don't mind having. More fans more noise. More fans more revenue. More revenue, more MVP caliber players. New fans are nice and if they had made the upper east deck cheap enough to attract the next gen of fans i would agree with this statement more.

Are we being cynical, ignorant or what? You can cry about what the intentions for these items were, but we're benefiting from having them, cannot be denied.

I don't believe i'm "crying" about anything thanks for taking a shot though next time come up with something better. I'm stating an opinion about the renovation and what has really been done, my statement of the renovations are more tailored to higher end revenue streams doesn't appear to be incorrect? I also stated i'm not against anyone making money, but i do fear we will end up paying much higher prices for very little upgrade.

[zeelaw]

we have to recognize that the stadium is still work in progress and will be for some time. It's still incomplete but it's more complete than it was last year and we are seeing provisions made for future success and ergo, future expansion.
I think people are annoyed because the stadium is still a work in progress for other reasons not related to TFC and soccer.

[ryan]

I don't believe i'm "crying" about anything thanks for taking a shot though next time come up with something better. I'm stating an opinion about the renovation and what has really been done, my statement of the renovations are more tailored to higher end revenue streams doesn't appear to be incorrect? I also stated i'm not against anyone making money, but i do fear we will end up paying much higher prices for very little upgrade.

So your response is, cool but I don't care.

Right, moving on.

[Red CB Toronto]

On a posative note on the Friday lets flash back to the old darling, in her original beauty, so innocent and new.

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LhaWl3NxrIw/UMNsTRWNruI/AAAAAAAAAXY/_S7etQsAoA4/s9600/BMO_Field_07.jpg

[StokeciTFC]

I think people are annoyed because the stadium is still a work in progress for other reasons not related to TFC and soccer.

i get that but the stadium would still be a work in progress project regardless of whether the Argos were moving in or not. there is clear progress at BMO - it's a better stadium than it was ten years ago and a better stadium than it was one year ago and I for one, welcome it.

[ryan]

i get that but the stadium would still be a work in progress project regardless of whether the Argos were moving in or not. there is clear progress at BMO - it's a better stadium than it was ten years ago and a better stadium than it was one year ago and I for one, welcome it.

It wouldn't be Toronto sports talk if we weren't hating fucking everything now would it? :)

[StokeciTFC]

It wouldn't be Toronto sports talk if we weren't hating fucking everything now would it? :)

y'know mate, you can probably tell by my username that I'm a Brit. One of the things I loved about this country when I first came here was just how positive in it's outlook it is in comparison to the UK. I also remember the first time I rode the TTC and saw, with open mouthed amazement that there was a mural of the Habs at College station on the opposite platform to one where a Leafs mural adorned the wall. Could you imagine how long a Man Utd mural at a Liverpool bus station would last?

How tolerant and civilized, I thought, how reasonable that sport should be given that level of respectful rivalry that that can happen. Maybe I could attend a game of some kind here without threat of a punch in the face or worse...

I still think Canadians and Torontonians have a wonderful attitude towards sport, I honestly do. But there is a bit of the sports fan hate in everyone, I guess.

anyway, that topic, what was it again?

[mistercorporate]

It wouldn't be Toronto sports talk if we weren't hating fucking everything now would it? :)

Amen. The Leafs really did a ringer on the cities sports broadcasting culture...bunch of negative nancies.

[Chevy]

We would not have the pleasure of enjoying Seba week in, week out if it were not for this renovation, simple as that. Just walking around it the other day has gotten me excited for tomorrow to see BMO full,loud and rocking under these new lights.

I'm also pumped for the opener, just like I have been for the previous 9. In terms of stadium and facility development, clubs that have been around for generations don't see the progress that our 10-year old club has seen. I have said this before - we have gone through FIVE stages of growth in ten years (new stadium, grass field, south end, east deck, roof). We have a pretty sweet training facility and academy program and a payroll that is probably 15 times (more?) what it was in year one. Revenue drives all of that, and the comment about the renos not having value to the common fan is nuts.

[mistercorporate]

I'm also pumped for the opener, just like I have been for the previous 9. In terms of stadium and facility development, clubs that have been around for generations don't see the progress that our 10-year old club has seen. I have said this before - we have gone through FIVE stages of growth in ten years (new stadium, grass field, south end, east deck, roof). We have a pretty sweet training facility and academy program and a payroll that is probably 15 times (more?) what it was in year one. Revenue drives all of that, and the comment about the renos not having value to the common fan is nuts.

Exactly, it's quite stunning the development. We don't appreciate how lucky we are. Imagine where the scene/franchise will be in another 10 years!

[keebler38]

Grand reopening @ 2pm - LIVE - http://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/watch-live-grand-re-opening-bmo-field/

[Fort York Redcoat]

i get that but the stadium would still be a work in progress project regardless of whether the Argos were moving in or not. there is clear progress at BMO - it's a better stadium than it was ten years ago and a better stadium than it was one year ago and I for one, welcome it.

There are renos that never needed to happen if it weren't for the Argos trying to fit their mismatched field in BMO.

[Fort York Redcoat]

https://twitter.com/24thminute/status/728582089474506752


Ill defend Duane for a second... what have we gained in the southend? a canopy that may keep a little sound in but provides little protection.

The upgrades were done to increase top end revenue streams and allow for other events, cool i don't mind that as long as they are the ones that pay for the upgrades but lets not pretend that these upgrades were for your average TFC supporter.

His wording is off is all. The common fan is the majority and they will appreciate the reno. The sound improvement (from the second tier being built was the only improvement for me last season.

[barticusz]

https://twitter.com/24thminute/status/728582089474506752



His wording is off is all. The common fan is the majority and they will appreciate the reno. The sound improvement (from the second tier being built was the only improvement for me last season.

Hey Duane, what is the common fan? Does that include me? Because I see there being huge value in the renos. Not only do I think it'll create a much improved atmosphere, but in turn it could end up bringing more common fans to the stadium which in turn will result in more revenue to be spent on the best players possible.

[Red CB Toronto]

Sportsnet just went to air !!!

[mistercorporate]

Watch live:
http://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/watch-live-grand-re-opening-bmo-field/

[Red CB Toronto]

They showed a few minutes and just cut out, whats the deal with that.

[Pint]

From the sounds of it Mark Grimes was about to speak and they figured it was best to cut away?

[Ultra & Proud]

It wouldn't be Toronto sports talk if we weren't hating fucking everything now would it? :)
This might have to be my new signature. It sums up everything in this thread and can probably be randomly dropped in almost every other thread on this board and be appropriate.

[troy1982]

360 Degree Video of TFC's first practice at the new BMO field


For those that don't know, click, hold and drag your mouse or finger to look around with 360 degree videos on youtube, or use the galaxy gear vr or google cardboard with your phone.


cH6aRQLghgs

[Amir FC]

So, I saw the Argos logo just on the right hand side of the grand opening banner, I though TFC was the main tenant? Are we sharing the stadium 50/50? I think the only advantage we have so far is the red seats, but I will give it couple of games to see what'll happen.

FYI, Official BMO field website has been updated and looks much better. The only down side is that Argos add is set to be on the home page.

[BottjerRNO]

It was stated at the Argos press conference several months back that TFC and the Argos are equal tenants.

[Amir FC]

It was stated at the Argos press conference several months back that TFC and the Argos are equal tenants.

then all these upgrades are not worth it lol

[mistercorporate]

FFS, over reacting much?

[Fort York Redcoat]

It was stated at the Argos press conference several months back that TFC and the Argos are equal tenants.

That is shocking. How does one react to a bald face lie?

[OgtheDim]

It was stated at the Argos press conference several months back that TFC and the Argos are equal tenants.

LOL...that makes sense for them to say that because the CFL psyche is even more damaged in this town then TFC


CFL prefers turf - field is grass except the endzones which have been made smaller to shoehorn them in

Argos play in blue - majority of stadium is in red

TFC gets best dates and time after Argo games to fix the field

TFC plays almost twice as many home games

Whatever some whiners in double blue (remember I'm a TiCat fan) want to think, let em.

TFC is the primary tenant

[SoccMan2]

I hate the CFL and I hate the Argos the sooner they fold the better! I don't care about the Argos or bloody TiCats for that matter! Soccer and CFL or NFL football should not be played in the same venue, but here we have it the Argos are in and here to stay, we have ass half renovation because of them, and I'm suppose to be satisfied with these renovations, fuck that, we should have had a proper renovated stadium if we did not have to accommodate the Argos, instead we have this, this is why soccer will never go anywhere in this country!

[Gringo Starr]

Where's the North

I'm trying to keep an open mind but going back to a three stand stadium seems a huge step backwards

[marquis]

Where's the North

I'm trying to keep an open mind but going back to a three stand stadium seems a huge step backwards

Same here. I could live with everything else, but that bare North end just takes away from all the excitement....

[ensco]

Same here. I could live with everything else, but that bare North end just takes away from all the excitement....

I liked the original open air north end with the beer garden, I think it could be good, actually

[glaze]

What's been left out is how much the argos paid for the reno. MLSE does not own the Argos. How do these renos improve TFC?
We opened 2 straight seasons with long road trips.
The atmosphere may be less with an open north end.
The field may be torn up, leading to injury or possible turf talk.
The lighting is no longer based in the corners, but along the sidelines like a CFL stadium.
What will happen in the postseason, with playoff dates, and possible field damage? Repair may be more difficult in late fall when the playing surface is most important.
How do the renos help TFC at all?

[Auzzy]

This is the construction thread. Philosophical discussions about Argos & all that: there's another thread for that.

[troy1982]

I liked the original open air north end with the beer garden, I think it could be good, actually

lets see how the open north end/patio will look later today with the raining and no shelter nearby.

[Alonso]

From the Winnipeg Free Press article:

"Each experience, as we go through it, will define to people what they should and shouldn't be expecting," said Hunter.

:rolleyes:



Mmm...... I love me some doublespeak!

[MightyDM]

I liked the original open air north end with the beer garden, I think it could be good, actually


Me too.

[GabrielHurl]

What's been left out is how much the argos paid for the reno

Here you go


The Argos' new owners contributed half of the $20 million needed to configure BMO Field to CFL dimensions and is paying for the dressing room separately.

[KurtLarSUN]

What's been left out is how much the argos paid for the reno. MLSE does not own the Argos. How do these renos improve TFC?
We opened 2 straight seasons with long road trips.
The atmosphere may be less with an open north end.
The field may be torn up, leading to injury or possible turf talk.
The lighting is no longer based in the corners, but along the sidelines like a CFL stadium.
What will happen in the postseason, with playoff dates, and possible field damage? Repair may be more difficult in late fall when the playing surface is most important.
How do the renos help TFC at all?

1) How will the atmosphere be less with 8,000 more people and roofing on the east and west stands that will undoubtedly keep sound in?
2) So now we're worried about grass injuring players? Which is it? Also, there have been so many stories addressing how the grass will be maintained in the best way possible.
3) Lighting in the corners previously had a negative impact on goalkeeping. Not anymore. The stadium is properly lit now.
4) We don't know what will happen in the post-season.
5) How do they help Toronto FC? Put it this way: An MLSE executive this week told me that without future revenue projections generated by the renovations, they would not have brought in Giovinco.

Anything else?

[ronzilla]

https://twitter.com/torontofc/status/728595345085698049

[James17930]

https://twitter.com/torontofc/status/728595345085698049



Whatever happens, good or bad, with the stadium going forward, it makes me laugh to remember just how many members of the media were spouting off about how TFC wouldn't last 2 seasons, and they were just a fad, and no one in Toronto cared enough to support a football team ... and now look.

A long way indeed.

[SoccMan2]

Just watching the Leicester City game would have loved a stadium like Leicester's , simple, fully enclosed and a proper roof no crazy gaps, maybe one day when I'm 90 if I live that long lol.

[TravelPat]

Well - it does look like the new canopies may make some fans very happy this evening. This the future radar look 45 minutes before kickoff.

https://scontent-yyz1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13179108_10207198842142653_5916284583035706828_n.j pg?oh=40319a058022b93e66eae1b1ff62a699&oe=57E7E4E6

[OgtheDim]

It's like a different place.

[the beat]

Mon the Reds!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

edit: wrong thread but I'm gonna go with it

[StokeciTFC]

Rain seems to have passed too...

[troy1982]

From Reddit


http://i.imgur.com/AjrwoAi.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/Goy90Yc.jpg

[ryan]

Well I guess we got our answers.

All the changes added absolutely nothing for the common fan. Experience was completely the same as always. I guess those I critized were spot on. Silly me.

[Joe Kool]

Ok so I got my answer about the roof coverage in the accessible row at the top of the south end now. The roof does absolutely nothing. Got rained on today even though it was just a little. Any real rainfall will soak us still. What a load of shit. Biggest accessible section in the stadium and they leave it exposed. Sucks. Whoever planned that part are asses.

[bigredone]

Big difference approaching on Atlantic Ave. Can really see it from King now. Anticipation starts a little earlier.

[__wowza]

http://i.imgur.com/lQD7zPA.jpg

[Kaz]

So I haven't seen this posted

a Star Article on the Pitch revealed that Supaturf is the paint being used.

here is a video of it being removed.



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHo9YD6CmRQ

[Still Kicking]

Ok, after seeing the reno in the flesh, I join the chorus of those very pleased with the look, feel and sound of the place last night.

HOWEVER
I was very, very dismayed with the north patio beer section. I looked at it when I first got into the stadium and the warm-ups had not yet started, so must have been prior to 7. I will be very happy to be proven wrong about the situation - to have somebody tell me that security and safety precautions were just delayed being put in place last night.

There seems to be no way of closing off the beer patio if it has too many patrons in it.
There seems to be nobody counting the number of ins and outs to determine number of patrons (my music festival experience, Hillside outside of Guelph every summer, has a number of festival staff people in the entrance/exit areas of the beer garden/stage tent area, sitting on picnic tables counting ins and outs all day. They can close an area when capacity has been reached).
There seems to be nothing within the beer patio to prevent surges of people harming other people. I don't know how the beer tables are anchored - safety concern if they topple?
There seems to be no awareness of "safe standing", as if anyone going into that area has pledged to not watch the game.
I did not go down the steps. Is it flat or does it rise to allow those at the back a view of the game??

Every soccer fan worth their salt has been aware of the Hillsborough tragedy for decades. Recent news out of the UK brought back a lot of memories for me. I think the constant theme within this RPB forum has been that non-soccer people dominate MLSE (and the CNE board too) and that soccer stadium decisions are made by the wrong folks...

[Red CB Toronto]

Ok, after seeing the reno in the flesh, I join the chorus of those very pleased with the look, feel and sound of the place last night.

HOWEVER
I was very, very dismayed with the north patio beer section. I looked at it when I first got into the stadium and the warm-ups had not yet started, so must have been prior to 7. I will be very happy to be proven wrong about the situation - to have somebody tell me that security and safety precautions were just delayed being put in place last night.

There seems to be no way of closing off the beer patio if it has too many patrons in it.
There seems to be nobody counting the number of ins and outs to determine number of patrons (my music festival experience, Hillside outside of Guelph every summer, has a number of festival staff people in the entrance/exit areas of the beer garden/stage tent area, sitting on picnic tables counting ins and outs all day. They can close an area when capacity has been reached).
There seems to be nothing within the beer patio to prevent surges of people harming other people. I don't know how the beer tables are anchored - safety concern if they topple?
There seems to be no awareness of "safe standing", as if anyone going into that area has pledged to not watch the game.
I did not go down the steps. Is it flat or does it rise to allow those at the back a view of the game??

Every soccer fan worth their salt has been aware of the Hillsborough tragedy for decades. Recent news out of the UK brought back a lot of memories for me. I think the constant theme within this RPB forum has been that non-soccer people dominate MLSE (and the CNE board too) and that soccer stadium decisions are made by the wrong folks...

A north end patio in various forms has been there since the first season and they never have controlled it in the manner you describe. It's never had any issues as far I remember.

[OgtheDim]

First of all, given the camera security MLSE has all over the stadium, I'm pretty darn sure they can count how many people are where. These people run venues. They are not amateurs.

Secondly, your use of Hillsborough in this arguement is ill advised. I had a cousin at Hillsborough in the stand above helping pull people up to safety. There is no comparison.

I understand your concerns. Disagree. That part of the venue has a potential to become a good aspect of the night.

[Still Kicking]

First of all, given the camera security MLSE has all over the stadium, I'm pretty darn sure they can count how many people are where. These people run venues. They are not amateurs.

Secondly, your use of Hillsborough in this arguement is ill advised. I had a cousin at Hillsborough in the stand above helping pull people up to safety. There is no comparison.

I understand your concerns. Disagree. That part of the venue has a potential to become a good aspect of the night.
OgtheDim
I am a huge fan of interacting with you in this forum, I sit in section 220 and would enjoy meeting you face to face at a game one day.

I do not wish to accuse anyone of amateurism. If our safety is being watched, ok, but then the staff person at the stop of the stairs seems ceremonial - no communication device that I could see and therefore would be just another person in an emergency.
I respect your feelings and the wisdom you have displayed time and time again. I respect and salute your cousin. I understand your sensitivity on the matter. The recent news has brought back memories for me too. I lived (for a year) in Thatcher's England and attended games at many grounds and felt the crush and the surge and the snarl of the cops. I think my lack of team colours and my shocking (to them) Canadian accent got me out of trouble a few times. I will withdraw my Hillsborough comparison, most respectfully, but it was not made glibly.

Yes, it has the potential to be a good aspect of the night, but so does the beer tent and concert stage at Hillside Festival. I have seen the latter closed due to overcrowding. I stated in my original posting that I am willing to be proven wrong, but first impression was not good....

It is not the only time that I have been puzzled by BMO staffing and security. Staff guarding and preventing folks from using fire exits just steps away from our sections, for example...

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Really curious to see what the deal is with the season ticket holders wall, my family is definitely on there and has been a point of pride for us over teh last decade

[SoccMan2]

Sorry I heard about this wall just recently, where was it located and how did someone get on it?

[GabrielHurl]

FWIW - there were security guys in the North patio with those little hand held counters counting how many people came in. Well they were there in the second half when I went to see some of the game from there.

[OgtheDim]

It is not the only time that I have been puzzled by BMO staffing and security. Staff guarding and preventing folks from using fire exits just steps away from our sections, for example...

Yeah, I wondered about that. Saw a few more stairs open at the end last night.

Fair enough on the rest. Will have to find you one game.

[DinamoTFC]

Very pleased with the new reno. Roof looks intimidating. The speaker system is really good. Sideline lighting is awesome. And the stadium felt much much louder especially in the south. Could clearly hear other sections singing. With each game it's just gonna keep getting louder.

[KurtLarSUN]

Hi guys...

Here's our coverage off last night's game. If you scroll to the bottom, there are some pretty cool photos http://www.torontosun.com/2016/05/07/toronto-fc-knocks-off-dallas-in-debut-at-new-bmo-field

Thanks,
Larson

[T-boy]

My thoughts haven't changed after seeing the stadium for the first time - and this is based on what Leiwike originally said he wanted the roof for (keeping noise in and keeping people dry):

East stand is impressive and intimidating. The roof is large and did hold some of the noise in, especially higher up. Most in the east will be dry with significant rain.

West stand is way to high, won't keep any sound in and will only keep those in the middle third dry with any significant rain and wind blowing it easterly or westerly.

South is still just bizarre. I didn't hear any more sound and nothing stayed in the south end. I doubt anybody will stay dry unless the rain is falling directly downwards and then only those in, say, rows 10 to 16 might keep dry.

I don't see the roof as doing anything much for the fans, its really more of a marketing ploy and designed based on bottom line than fan enjoyment.

[jazzy]

field side seating on the east side has been a BMO blue for at least a season if not two now. Nothing new.

Those custom high back seats are new, purposely chosen in 'blue' seats . Hence the touch of blue maybe forever in our uniforms . East side stands simply are best 'roofed' and helped capture all the atmosphere . I could actually here the supporters on the second level chanting above us lower . The others sides would presume that may not be the case .

[C.Ronaldo]

I agree. No protection for the accessible section is shameful. They shld allow u to use umbrellas up there.

Thet just had to lowe the roof a few ft and extend a bit. I know it.may be temp until next reno but its Silliness and disrespectful.

[OgtheDim]

West stand is way to high, won't keep any sound in and will only keep those in the middle third dry with any significant rain and wind blowing it easterly or westerly.

....


Uh, it did keep the sound in. As for dry, we'll see.


The noise is WAY more then in the past. Maybe you didn't heat it in 113 but its significantly louder for people in the east and west.

[OgtheDim]

Those custom high back seats are new, purposely chosen in 'blue' seats ..


No.

Go back and look at the highlights from last season. Blue high backs.

The years before that were blue tables.

[KurtLarSUN]

Ok so I got my answer about the roof coverage in the accessible row at the top of the south end now. The roof does absolutely nothing. Got rained on today even though it was just a little. Any real rainfall will soak us still. What a load of shit. Biggest accessible section in the stadium and they leave it exposed. Sucks. Whoever planned that part are asses.

It's the way it is in order to keep BMO Field expandable for big events. No choice, really. That is, unless you don't want BMO to be expandable.

[jazzy]

It's the way it is in order to keep BMO Field expandable for big events. No choice, really. That is, unless you don't want BMO to be expandable.

K...When I find the time I'll try...

[T-boy]

Uh, it did keep the sound in. As for dry, we'll see.


The noise is WAY more then in the past. Maybe you didn't heat it in 113 but its significantly louder for people in the east and west.

I would argue that the actual crowd were much louder yesterday than we have heard in quite a few years. I guess we will see when the initial early season enthusiasm wears off a little to see if the roof itself is making a difference to keeping noise in.

I was actually in 110 yesterday and not my usual 113, but I did try and go around to each side a little to see the difference. I didn't spend significant time in the west though, I'll give you the benefit of the doubt on that so far.

[Bobo]

To be honest, despite the undeniable improvement, I'm rather underwhelmed at the 150m investment. If anything, the sound system is worse, I couldn't even understand the announcer at times which seemed to be a reverb issue, not a crowd noise issue.

[German21]

Those custom high back seats are new, purposely chosen in 'blue' seats . Hence the touch of blue maybe forever in our uniforms . East side stands simply are best 'roofed' and helped capture all the atmosphere . I could actually here the supporters on the second level chanting above us lower . The others sides would presume that may not be the case .

No they are not new. I have seats in 110, 5 rows from the bottom. Those seats were there last year and possibly even the year before. Also the tables that were there before them were also BMO blue. Blue at field leave on the east side has been there for years.

[zeelaw]

I gotta say that I was underwhelmed looking at it physically, but it does a great job of keeping the sound in.

[james]

Ok, after seeing the reno in the flesh, I join the chorus of those very pleased with the look, feel and sound of the place last night.

HOWEVER
I was very, very dismayed with the north patio beer section. I looked at it when I first got into the stadium and the warm-ups had not yet started, so must have been prior to 7. I will be very happy to be proven wrong about the situation - to have somebody tell me that security and safety precautions were just delayed being put in place last night.

There seems to be no way of closing off the beer patio if it has too many patrons in it.
There seems to be nobody counting the number of ins and outs to determine number of patrons (my music festival experience, Hillside outside of Guelph every summer, has a number of festival staff people in the entrance/exit areas of the beer garden/stage tent area, sitting on picnic tables counting ins and outs all day. They can close an area when capacity has been reached).
There seems to be nothing within the beer patio to prevent surges of people harming other people. I don't know how the beer tables are anchored - safety concern if they topple?
There seems to be no awareness of "safe standing", as if anyone going into that area has pledged to not watch the game.
I did not go down the steps. Is it flat or does it rise to allow those at the back a view of the game??

Every soccer fan worth their salt has been aware of the Hillsborough tragedy for decades. Recent news out of the UK brought back a lot of memories for me. I think the constant theme within this RPB forum has been that non-soccer people dominate MLSE (and the CNE board too) and that soccer stadium decisions are made by the wrong folks...

Hillsborough had big fences that kept fans locked in like a animal loading pen with only 1 way in and out. We do not have anything like that, the area is very open with nothing stopping fans from escaping many different ways out of the area if there was ever a emergency. Its not worth comparing the 2. Its probably more like an outdoor music festival, free to walk around as you please and densely busy near the front stage.

[Eastend]

Based on what we were told to expect, so expectations in check, the only "complaint" I have is with the new sound system. From 116 we could not make out what the announcer was saying for most of the game.

[nfitz]

Ok so I got my answer about the roof coverage in the accessible row at the top of the south end now. The roof does absolutely nothing. Got rained on today even though it was just a little. Any real rainfall will soak us still. What a load of shit. Biggest accessible section in the stadium and they leave it exposed. Sucks. Whoever planned that part are asses.The rain yesterday was blowing south to north. I was near and right at the back for some of it, and I felt it (very light though).

But later on I was up front, and they weren't even aware that there'd been any rain. So it seemed to keep from the middle to the front dry.

Usually though the wind is blowing from the west or northwest - not the south.

So I suspect that the accessible at the back will be try more often than not.

As for all the drama for the last few months - well that was a big mountain out of a molehill. The new rows at the front were barely perceptible if you weren't standing on them. And even then, it was only the brand new metal, and slightly lower elevation that gave it away.

A job well done I'd say, given the constraints.

[james]

I was row 10, 112, I didn't notice it rained at all until we came out after the game, but it was more of a light misty rain. So hard to tell how well the roof in the south end would protect us in a windy downpour.

[magmadragon]

In 111 we definitely felt the light rain. Speaker system is way better where we are. In past years I had trouble understanding the announcer, not anymore. One thing I noticed was that the entire back wall of the west concourse was BMO blue. I usually don't go there so maybe it was like that last year but I don't believe so. Before the game I did a full tour (forgot what a workout going to the last row of the east is) and there are things still to finish but overall its nothing like last year. I assume the rest will be wrapped up before the ex happens or even the Indy.

[anto7]

I was in 114. Thought the stadium looked awesome. Really helped with it being full at kick-off. National anthem gave my goosebumps. The canopy over the south end did not look that bad at all with the stands full and the east stand is very impressive and looks huge. Probably one of the best atmospheres at a game in a long time, great to see both the east and west side getting into it at times, felt like there was a real buzz back at BMO.

[Joe Kool]

Based on what we were told to expect, so expectations in check, the only "complaint" I have is with the new sound system. From 116 we could not make out what the announcer was saying for most of the game.

Back of 114 we could not hear the announcer at all almost all game either. They need to add a couple speakers in the south I think.

[james]

the speakers sounded super loud in 112....but people were chanting and talking during most of the announcements so I didn't know what they were saying because of all the noise around me.

[james]

I think what I noticed most was when Toronto FC came close to scoring or a play was building up, the roar from the East Side was great, I think part of it was having a sold out stadium but also the new grand East Stand kept the noise in.

[OgtheDim]

The better test of the sound will be in a mid week game that is not as busy, like a Voyageurs game. They keep saying the next few weeks are near sell out so who's knows when we'll find out what happens when there are only 18K there.

[Detroit_TFC]

One thing I noticed is that the place was full and there were still a lot of people watching the game from the south concourse and from the patio, like usual. That place was legitimately packed.

[Thomas]

Our national anthem brought tears to my eyes. The roof definitely made a difference with the sound of the crowd. It was a night to remember, and I can't wait till next week-end.

[Onyx]

In 111 we definitely felt the light rain. Speaker system is way better where we are. In past years I had trouble understanding the announcer, not anymore. One thing I noticed was that the entire back wall of the west concourse was BMO blue. I usually don't go there so maybe it was like that last year but I don't believe so. Before the game I did a full tour (forgot what a workout going to the last row of the east is) and there are things still to finish but overall its nothing like last year. I assume the rest will be wrapped up before the ex happens or even the Indy.

rain ... isn't 111 under two roofs

[mook-life]

It's the way it is in order to keep BMO Field expandable for big events. No choice, really. That is, unless you don't want BMO to be expandable.

So youd rather worry about adding seats than keeping people in wheelchairs dry.... Wow

[Huyton]

I see no reason why they can't add a bus shelter sort of thing at the top of the south end for those whose mobility is impaired.

[mistercorporate]

No need to be so presumptuous, it isnt a zero sum game. Kurt makes a valid point.


So youd rather worry about adding seats than keeping people in wheelchairs dry.... Wow

[Ben - D.O.W.]

rain ... isn't 111 under two roofs

I'm row 21 seats 4 and 5 - looking up there's a bit of a gap between the two roofs. We felt a bit of weather but there wasn't enough to really compare what it'll be like. It'll definitely depend on what direction the wind is blowing.

[Detroit_TFC]

I understand that in every capital project there are trade-offs between what is wanted and what can be done. The canopies are a big improvement. But it is simply confounding to me that the south canopy doesn't cover the entire concourse, especially when the canopy was built to provide clearance for expanded temporary seating. I guess this counts as a complaint.

The north end changes don't bother me too much. In fact by clearing out all those facilities around the north end, flow of traffic is much better.

[Fort York Redcoat]

Here you go

That's great news Gab but could you add the link next time for reference? Appreciate it.

[Fort York Redcoat]

What's been left out is how much the argos paid for the reno. MLSE does not own the Argos. How do these renos improve TFC?
We opened 2 straight seasons with long road trips.
The atmosphere may be less with an open north end.
The field may be torn up, leading to injury or possible turf talk.
The lighting is no longer based in the corners, but along the sidelines like a CFL stadium.
What will happen in the postseason, with playoff dates, and possible field damage? Repair may be more difficult in late fall when the playing surface is most important.
How do the renos help TFC at all?


1) How will the atmosphere be less with 8,000 more people and roofing on the east and west stands that will undoubtedly keep sound in?
2) So now we're worried about grass injuring players? Which is it? Also, there have been so many stories addressing how the grass will be maintained in the best way possible.
3) Lighting in the corners previously had a negative impact on goalkeeping. Not anymore. The stadium is properly lit now.
4) We don't know what will happen in the post-season.
5) How do they help Toronto FC? Put it this way: An MLSE executive this week told me that without future revenue projections generated by the renovations, they would not have brought in Giovinco.

Anything else?

The North End was not a great atmosphere. I'm sure the few people there had a good time watching the game at the rail but unless one was taller than the person in front one couldn't see the pitch. So behind 2 rows of people there were tables for people who just wanted to chat over a beer.

We have always been concerned over injuries from poor grass conditions caused from gridiron. It's not new. We've read the stories and have mixed opinions on the optimistic expectations of a new standard.

The lighting was better in every way as far as I could see.

Thanks for your input, Kurt. Seriously.

[Deltron]

I am in section 111 and for sure could feel the rain drops, if it rains hard with some wind it would be wet there. The east side canopy stops right at the edge of the stands and with the wind blowing it comes right into the section. The canopy over the south side may cover the first couple rows of 111 but doesn't help at all with the rest of it.

[GabrielHurl]

That's great news Gab but could you add the link next time for reference? Appreciate it.

http://i.imgur.com/ENzGwpV.gif

http://www.thespec.com/sports-story/6456408-van-zeyl-argos-can-flourish-at-bmo-field/

[GreatWhiteNorth]

I am in section 111 and for sure could feel the rain drops, if it rains hard with some wind it would be wet there. The east side canopy stops right at the edge of the stands and with the wind blowing it comes right into the section. The canopy over the south side may cover the first couple rows of 111 but doesn't help at all with the rest of it.

I felt a few drops in 111 row 16. I looked up and it was a few drops coming from the edge of the south awning, perhaps the scaffolding, blown off from the wind most likely.

[Fort York Redcoat]

http://i.imgur.com/ENzGwpV.gif

http://www.thespec.com/sports-story/6456408-van-zeyl-argos-can-flourish-at-bmo-field/

HAHA awesome! We need to add that emoticon toute suite.

[Initial B]

I think the rain on the south stands could be mitigated by adding some lugnuts along the roof edge and string up enough canvas awning to provide some additional cover yet still allow the wind to flow underneath it. Or maybe a really long RV awning that could be winched out.