Deal finalized for $280 million renovation of Hamilton’s FirstOntario Centre
- Michael Kras
- 03 Nov 2023
Hamilton’s FirstOntario Centre is about to undergo a massive transformation.
A $280 million deal has been struck between arena operator Oak View Group (OVG), Hamilton Urban Precinct Entertainment Group (HUPEG), and the City of Hamilton to renovate the city’s centrepiece arena for sports and live entertainment.
FirstOntario Centre will be closed starting spring 2024 to begin the substantial renovations, which are expected to be completed by fall 2025.
Those renovations will see FirstOntario Centre become an 18,000-seat venue with a completely reimagined façade; premium seating areas; enhanced acoustics; improved sightlines; upgraded concourses; and optimized clubs, suites, and artist lounges.
Additionally, Live Nation will join OVG as the venue’s booking partner with the goal of bringing exciting concerts and other live events to Hamilton.
“This exciting redevelopment will create a world-class entertainment destination for the people of Hamilton and the entire region and contribute to the economic and cultural vibrancy of our city, said Hamilton’s Mayor Andrea Horwath.
“OVG is an international entertainment powerhouse and their investment in Hamilton is a huge vote of confidence in our city. I’m so excited to see this transformation come to life.”
FirstOntario Centre’s sister venues – FirstOntario Concert Hall and the Hamilton Convention Centre – will continue hosting events during this renovation period.
See more on the Oak View Group website.
Lead image courtesy of Oak View Group
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