Demolition of Fredericton's Landmark Grandstand Commences

Post by : Mina Rahman

The New Brunswick Provincial Exhibition has initiated the dismantling of its historic grandstand at the Fredericton Exhibition Grounds following the city's refusal to overturn a demolition order. This order, issued on September 9, cited numerous safety risks, which included rusting structural parts, potential asbestos exposure, absent protective barriers, accumulation of debris, and the risk of falls.

After a failed appeal in October, the exhibition's board of directors decided to adhere to the demolition decree. Rae Tretiak, the exhibition's executive director, stated that the board gained a better understanding of the city's concerns post-hearing and concurred that the removal of the grandstand was necessary.

Demolition work commenced roughly a week ago, with crews beginning by clearing materials surrounding the seating area and disposing of roof debris. Subsequent steps include taking down the steel frame and dismantling the concrete foundation to mitigate any tripping hazards. Tretiak estimates the endeavor will span two to three months at an approximate cost of $400,000.

Local residents have been visiting to pay their respects to a site rich in community heritage. The grandstand has been shuttered since 2017 and sealed off since 2023; it was once a hub for numerous events, including a notable royal visit in July 1959. The structure is adjacent to a racetrack that occasionally accommodates horses, despite the cessation of official races in 2016.

Discussions regarding the land's future are ongoing, with one potential use being the establishment of a middle school, though a decision has yet to be made. Concurrently, the city and the exhibition are engaged in negotiations over the grounds' future oversight. Ahead of the November 17 deadline, four objections have been filed as part of these discussions.