Many event organizers are looking ahead to the summer of 2023, but infrastructure repairs are throwing a wrench in their plans.
The municipality says sewer upgrades on streets around Tecumseh Park in Chatham will limit access for larger events, resulting in relocation of some and rescheduling of others.
The project is expected to extend from June 1st to December 31st next year, affecting roughly 10 planned special events.
Parks, Recreation & Cemeteries that oversees special events will be working with the Engineering and Public Works divisions to try to accommodate smaller events that take place in the park by creating access points around the construction or will be working with the event organizers to relocate and/or reschedule these events,” a municipal statement reads. “Larger events will not be permitted in the park as the access points would not be sufficient to allow for the larger equipment and materials that is brought in for these events.”
The annual Chatham Ribfest is among the larger events affected, and organizers say they’re struggling to find a new location.
“Options such as St. Clair College and Memorial Arena had their own challenges and lacked proper infrastructure and usable space,” organizer Chris Glassford said. “We require specific conditions to operate the event including enhanced hydro, on-site water hookups, and space, something that Tecumseh Park has been able to accommodate us with for 13 years.”
Glassford says he appreciates the need for infrastructure upgrades in the area, but is worried plans for the 2023 edition of Ribfest may have to be delayed.
