Ironic that First Ontario is getting a good run of shows and then this comes out in the Spec:
A new proposal for Hamilton’s FirstOntario Centre
A smaller, sustainable hockey facility could be augmented by world-class indoor cycling potential
https://www.thespec.com/opinion-stor...ntario-centre/
Much has been written lately of First Ontario Centre regarding maintenance, possible upgrades and its ultimate fate. There has even been a suggestion that the arena, convention centre and performing arts centre be handed over to the private sector for redevelopment. As well, in all of this we have the generous offer of Bulldog owner Michael Andlauer to pay for half of a new arena.
I believe we need a new vision for First Ontario Centre — one that would feature continued public ownership, but with a complete repurposing of the facility. The same sort of makeover that was accomplished for Maple Leaf Gardens should be applied to First Ontario Centre. In the renovations the original structure of Maple Leaf Gardens was kept but the hockey rink was scaled down and several levels were added to the building where the extra seats had been. On these extra floors Ryerson University has installed its athletics department complete with gym, fitness centre, sport venues and classrooms.
What I am suggesting for First Ontario Centre is a modern, more intimate arena, perhaps 5,400 fixed seats. This would be on the ground level. Above this, on the next floor, would be a 250 metre, Olympic-size velodrome with 2,000 — 3,000 fixed seats. National Cycling Centre Hamilton (NCCH) is a 2003 world cycling championships legacy organization. NCCH would be a major tenant for this track.