$280-Million Renovation of FirstOntario Centre Set to Transform Hamilton

Hamilton's FirstOntario Centre is about to get a major makeover with a $280-million renovation led by Oak View Group (OVG), the world's largest developer of sports and live entertainment venues.

Tim Leiweke, CEO of OVG, expressed excitement about bringing Hamilton into the fold of world-class cities where OVG has built successful arenas, including Manchester, Coachella Valley, Seattle, Boston, New York, and Baltimore. "Hamilton now joins our family of world-class cities," Leiweke said.

The arena's renovation is just the beginning. The project will kick off a series of upgrades, including the nearby convention centre, the Art Gallery of Hamilton, and the Hamilton concert hall. Hamilton Urban Precinct Entertainment Group (HUPEG), which includes members like Carmens Group, LIUNA, and Fengate, is spearheading an area redevelopment initiative known as The Commons. Plans for The Commons feature three residential sites, a hotel, restaurants, and new meeting and event spaces.

The arena itself will undergo significant changes, including a new facade, premium seating, enhanced acoustics, improved sightlines, upgraded concourses, new clubs and suites, and artist lounges. The 18,000-seat facility is expected to be completed by fall 2025, with EllisDon as the construction manager and Brisbin Brook Beynon Architects as the designer.

Financial Confidence

Leiweke assured that the project is fully financed. “We will soon announce the building has been completely financed by one of the largest banks in the world,” he said. “For the first time ever, this institution came in and took the whole thing. So, for those doubting if we have the money or can complete it, 100% of the roughly $300 million is in the bank and ready to go.”

Broader Entertainment District

HUPEG is also committed to enhancing the broader entertainment district around the arena. “We will be very intentional about the other developments around this arena,” said Mercanti. The renovated venue aims to host 18,000 people and will feature top-notch amenities like enhanced acoustics, improved sightlines, upgraded concourses, and new artist lounges.

A Music-First Venue

The goal is to open by November 2025 and host over 125 events per year, focusing mainly on concerts. Live Nation will be the booking partner, ensuring a music-first content strategy. The model is similar to other OVG projects like CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore and Co-op Live in Manchester, both designed with music in mind.

Continued Operations and Future Growth

The venue will remain open during phase one of renovations before closing until completion. Leiweke hinted at more venue developments worldwide, despite the high demand exceeding the company's current capacity.

Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting transformation of Hamilton's FirstOntario Centre!