Council approves naming rights agreement for ‘Bump Hudson Sport Park’

Moose Jaw City Council agreed during its June 26 regular meeting that Iron Bridge Community Association can rename the sport courts built by the association to the ‘Bump Hudson’ sport courts for 10 years.

Council unanimously approved a Naming Rights Sponsorship Agreement between the City of Moose Jaw and the Iron Bridge Community Association (IBCA), beginning July 1, 2023 and expiring on June 30, 2033.

An agreement was first made between the City and IBCA for the construction of various outdoor recreational amenities in the Iron Bridge subdivision in April, 2021. The IBCA is fully funding the three-phase plan, for a cost so far of $117,000.

The sport court was constructed in 2021/22 on land designated for city park space. According to the council agenda item, about $3,000 worth of landscaping is left in phase 1, which is practically complete.

“The name is suggested in honour of a $40,000 donation received by the [IBCA] from community member Bump Hudson towards the construction of the sport court,” Derek Blais, director of parks and recreation, explained to city council. “In reviewing [the relevant policies], they both appear to align with the request.”

While the IBCA needs approval from city council for the renaming of the park, they have assumed all costs associated with the recreational facilities, including the installation and maintenance of all signage.

Included in the agreement is a condition that if that signage deteriorates, the City can require the IBCA to restore it within a mutually agreed timeframe.

The only concern raised from a council member was by Councillor Jamey Logan. Logan pointed out that because IBCA is doing the signage themselves, there is a risk of the result being out of theme with the rest of the park signs in Moose Jaw.

Blais responded that signage does have to meet approved branding guidelines, and Logan thanked him and said he hoped it would all look consistent.

Phase 2 of Iron Bridge’s plan is the installation of a seasonal outdoor ice rink and a utility/storage shed. Phase 3 will include a community gazebo and an outdoor fireplace.

Fundraising for those final phases is ongoing, and construction will begin once the money is available.