‘Fresh start’ for Emslie Field grandstand would save money in 2026 budget

The grandstand at Emslie Field in St. Thomas, Ont., which was built in 1938, has been closed after a report to city council deemed it unsafe. (Brent Lale/CTV News London)

As St. Thomas City Council gets set to finalize its 2026 budget, staff have come up with a few new ideas to save a bit of money, while adding more amenities.

In a report scheduled for council Monday night, the city’s director of finance Adam Boylan has presented some new amendments which would save money; however, they won’t lower the projected tax hike of six per cent.

The main proposal is a “fresh start” approach to the structural concerns of the existing Emslie Grandstand.

Boylan suggested removing the current structure and install modern, accessible amenities at a significantly reduced cost.

“Following a site visit to Tip O’Neil Ballpark in Woodstock, staff are assessing pricing for demolition, new concrete bleacher pads (including accessible areas), accessible bleachers, a barrier-free ramp, equipment storage, replacement player benches, and protective netting,” Boylan wrote to council.

He estimates this design would cost approximately $600,000, well below the originally requested $1,197,000.

He added that other elements such as a new announcer’s booth, can be reviewed but would be considered add-ons depending on the final pricing of core components. The proposed project is recommended to be funded through the Canada Community Benefit Fund.

Other suggested amendments to the budget would be adding six sand volleyball courts at the south end of Pinafore Park which would support organized rentals and public use.

He also recommended relocating the existing bronze roof gazebo at 1Password Park, installation of a sun shelter at the JC Pool, and purchasing a professional baseball diamond infield grooming machine.

By reducing the cost of the original grandstand plan, they can add these new amendments and still come in $87,000 under their original capital spending in the 2026 budget.