EllisDon has announced that it has been named the construction manager for a $280-million renovation to Hamilton’s FirstOntario Centre.

Work will see the building transformed into an 18,000-seat venue with a reimagined facade, improved audio/video systems, sightlines and concourses, and better amenities and spaces for performing artists and premium guests.

Brisbin Brook Beynon Architects will design the renovation, which is part of a larger downtown revitalization project known as “The Commons”, which includes the newly reimagined arena, renovated convention centre, significant investments in the Art Gallery of Hamilton and concert hall facilities, as well as new residential, office, and retail space development.

FirstOntario Concert Hall and the Hamilton Convention Centre will remain open and continue to host events during the arena’s renovation. 

Once complete, FirstOntario Centre will be controlled and operated by Oak View Group as part of a long-term lease with the City of Hamilton.

“We are thrilled to contribute to the transformation of FirstOntario Centre into a premier entertainment hub,” said Randy Reymer, EllisDon’s Vice-President and Area Manager for Southwestern Ontario. “This endeavour represents not just a renovation, but a commitment to elevating the city’s cultural and economic landscape. At EllisDon, we embrace the challenge of crafting a state-of-the-art venue that blends innovation and accessibility. Our team is excited to play a role in bringing this vision to life, adding to the vibrancy of Hamilton’s downtown core. More than just construction, this project is an investment in the city’s dynamic future, and we are honoured to be a part of it.”

Work is scheduled to commence in spring 2024, with the grand opening anticipated in the fall of 2025.

The venue, formerly known as Copps Coliseum, first opened in 1985.