Woodbridge
Project Overview
The Woodbridge Sports Dome, the largest air-supported structure to date for Woodbridge Sports Dome, was initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021 and opened in January 2022. Despite operational restrictions due to COVID-19, the dome represents the fourth successful collaboration between Woodbridge Sports Dome and The Farley Group. The project uniquely serves both municipal and Catholic school board purposes, providing leased access during school hours.
Goals and Challenges
The Woodbridge Sports Dome, the largest air-supported structure to date for Woodbridge Sports Dome, was initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021 and opened in January 2022. Despite operational restrictions due to COVID-19, the dome represents the fourth successful collaboration between Woodbridge Sports Dome and The Farley Group. The project uniquely serves both municipal and Catholic school board purposes, providing leased access during school hours.
Unique Design Requirements
The dome includes both hardcourt and field areas, a distinctive feature at the time in Ontario.
Enhanced Visibility and Accessibility
Increasing the visibility of Maples Crossing to draw more athletes and visitors, and to position it as a central hub for athletic training in the area.
Enhanced Visibility and Accessibility
Increasing the visibility of Maples Crossing to draw more athletes and visitors, and to position it as a central hub for athletic training in the area.
Why Air-supported Structures and The Farley Group
Woodbridge Sports Dome chose air-supported structures for their flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and ability to quickly adapt to various sports and events. Having collaborated on prior projects, the client valued The Farley Group’s proven track record and superior service. Although alternatives like Yeadon and Asati were considered, The Farley Group’s reputation for quality and reliability tipped the scale in its favor.
Planning and Installation Process
The Farley Group’s experienced team provided seamless support throughout the project, with Ian from sales serving as the primary point of contact. Chris McCartney noted that The Farley Group’s familiarity with municipal regulations and their ability to provide detailed documentation were instrumental in overcoming local permitting challenges.
Overcoming Challenges
The primary obstacles were:
COVID-19 Regulations
Navigating restrictions required flexibility and close coordination with city officials.
Municipal Education
As the first air-supported structure in Woodbridge, there was a steep learning curve with local authorities. The Farley Group facilitated this by liaising with other municipalities and providing documentation to expedite permit approvals.
Benefits and User Feedback
The facility’s adaptability to various sports has attracted a wide array of user groups. The Ontario Volleyball Association, among others, has provided glowing feedback, commending the dome’s accessibility and quality.
Project Outcomes
The Woodbridge Sports Dome not only met but exceeded expectations. Notable features include:
Natural Lighting and LED Upgrades
The addition of skylights has improved the quality of light, and LED lighting provides energy efficiency.
Largest Dome Project
This project has allowed Woodbridge Sports Dome to diversify into multisport offerings, reducing reliance on a single revenue stream.
Future Plans and Benefits
The dome structure offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional buildings, making it an appealing option for expansion. Future plans include introducing a new pickleball surface to attract additional user groups.
TFG is fantastic to deal with and never have any issues with the team. We have worked with TFG on previous domes over the past 20 years, and every department has been helpful and supportive. For future domes, we will continue to work with The Farley Group.