Surrey is looking to buy eight mobile bleachers that together could seat 1,200 people at outdoor events in the city.
A report before the city council Monday (Feb. 10) says there's a growing demand "for increased seating opportunities" at the hundreds of outdoor events in Surrey each year, including sports tournaments, concerts and parades.
Following a Request for Proposals (RFP), Surrey's Parks, Recreation & Culture Department recommends a $673,000 contract for eight mobile, towable bleachers made by Century Industries, based in Sellersburg, Indiana, with an "expenditure authorization limit" of just over $740,000.
Rated for highway transport, each bleacher/grandstand unit can seat around 156 people and can be assembled in under 30 minutes.
Such mobile, towable bleachers offer temporary seating solutions in Surrey, the report notes.
"Investing in (the bleachers) isn't just about adding more seats; it's about elevating the entire experience for our residents and visitors at outdoor events," Mayor Brenda Locke said in a news release Friday (Feb. 7).
“Our vision is a vibrant events ecosystem that unites athletes, artists, spectators and neighbours, making our city the premier destination for sports, performances, and community celebrations," the mayor added. "We're not just building facilities, we're creating spaces that bring people together and foster a sense of connection and pride."
Funding for the contract is available in the approved 2024 Parks, Recreation & Culture Capital Budget, notes the report to council authored by Laurie Cavan, Parks, Recreation & Culture general manager.
Century Industries makes mobile stages, bleachers/grandstands and food concessions.
