Elliot Lake Council Greenlights $11.6M Rogers Arena Retrofit
Elliot Lake City Council has unanimously approved a significant project aimed at revitalizing the Rogers Arena. This initiative will involve a full retrofit, designed by the architectural firm Perry + Perry Architects. The city has earmarked a budget of $11.6 million to bring the arena up to current Ontario Building Code standards.
Elliot Lake Rogers Arena Retrofit Details
The agreement with Perry + Perry Architects stipulates that the city will pay 10 percent of the final project cost, capped at $1.16 million. Chris Perry, a representative from the firm, assured the council that the renovations will significantly enhance the arena’s lifespan, projecting an extension of an impressive 75 years.
Project Insights and Timeline
During the council meeting, Perry highlighted that most uncertainties regarding the project have been resolved. He emphasized that the arena’s design would be upgraded from its 1970s aesthetic to a more modern 2000s functionality. The team plans to provide the council with regular updates, ensuring transparency regarding costs and progress.
- The first step involves creating a comprehensive project plan.
- This plan will include milestone markers and 3D models to visualize the new look of the arena.
- Consultation with stakeholders will be integral to the design process.
Perry expressed a commitment to transforming the project into a legacy for the community that moves beyond past challenges. The retrofitting, which initially started as a simple roof repair, revealed significant structural concerns that led to the arena’s closure in September 2023. The city has already invested over $11 million to rectify these issues.
Future Improvements
The newly approved budget will cover a range of improvements, including:
- Life safety enhancements
- Compliance with building codes
- Improved accessibility features
Elliot Lake Mayor Andrew Wannan commented on the project, describing the venture as “modernizing the old barn.” The community awaits these critical upgrades with hope and anticipation.
