Hamilton politicians, city staff, and other stakeholders gathered for an official groundbreaking ceremony for the redevelopment of the FirstOntario Centre. The $280-million private sector renovation of the 39-year-old facility was launched with the dismantling of the first pieces of the old arena. Hamilton Urban Precinct Entertainment Group (HUPEG) president PJ Mercanti stated that the real work is not far behind, with completion expected in the fall of 2025 and a November opening date. HUPEG has been working closely with the city, Oakview Group (OVG), and Live Nation to bring the project to this point and is excited to see the next chapter begin.
Once finished, the renovated arena will be able to host 18,000 visitors and more than 125 events annually. Amenities will include a new street-level concourse, a restaurant open 365 days a year, upgraded food and beverage areas, and improved suites and club spaces. Mercanti emphasized that live music will be a key attraction once the venue is completed, serving as an anchor tenant and a relief valve for touring entertainers who may want to avoid competing for dates at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. Additionally, sports teams are expected to act as localized anchors, with the Toronto Rock maintaining their tenancy and the possibility of a new or existing hockey team being sought after.
The management partnership between the city, HUPEG, and OVG is expected to alleviate some financial burden from city taxpayers, with a projected $155 million cost savings over the next 30 years. Mayor Andrea Horwath, who was not on council when the deal was initially agreed upon in 2021, expressed her support for the multi-million-dollar investment, calling it “the right thing to do” despite current budget challenges. The redevelopment project is seen as a strategic inflection point for the city of Hamilton, and stakeholders are optimistic about its positive impact on the local community.
The enhanced arena is anticipated to become a major entertainment hub in the region, attracting top-tier acts and providing a valuable venue for cultural events. With its proximity to the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and a catchment area of nearly 10 million people, Hamilton is poised to become a significant player in the North American touring circuit. The focus on live music as a key component of the venue’s programming reflects a broader trend in the entertainment industry, where artists and promoters are seeking out diverse and accessible venues for their performances.
The redevelopment of the FirstOntario Centre represents a significant investment in the revitalization of downtown Hamilton, with the potential to drive economic growth and tourism in the area. By offering modern amenities, expanded seating capacity, and improved facilities for both patrons and performers, the renovated arena aims to elevate the city’s cultural and entertainment offerings. The collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders underscores a shared commitment to enhancing the community’s quality of life and positioning Hamilton as a premier destination for entertainment and sports events. This landmark project signals a new era of development and prosperity for the city, setting the stage for increased vitality and vibrancy in the downtown core.
