http://ottawacitizen.com/sports/hoc...s-to-tighten-security-at-canadian-tire-centre
In case you havnt been following the news on the other side of the river, a plan to replace the piques arena fell apart in June. Sens could now swoop in and save the day. It's interesting given that they're working on a lebreton flats proposal right now too. A hull arena could end up serving as the sens primary practice pad.
Build it and they won’t leave?
The Ottawa Senators could end up playing a major role in the building of a replacement complex for Gatineau’s broken down Robert Guertin Arena.
In so doing, they could also help keep the Gatineau Olympiques, one of the most storied franchises in major junior hockey, from leaving following the 2017-18 season, when the 56-year-old Guertin arena is scheduled for demolition.
In a statement Tuesday, Senators Sports and Entertainment president Cyril Leeder signaled the organization’s intention to work closely with Gatineau Mayor Maxime Pedneault-Jobin on “a strategy to meet the growing demand for new ice facilities in their community.”
There was no specific mention of the Olympiques or the Robert Guertin Arena, but in early June, Gatineau city council put out the call for private sector help after scrapping its plan to construct a facility which would have housed the Olympiques and included a performing arts studio. Rising costs – a facility boasting a 5,000-seat arena could cost anywhere from $60 million-$75 million to build – was the major reason for the vote against the project.
Now along come the Senators, who through their Capital Sports Management arm, already operate the Bell Sensplex, Cavanagh Sensplex and Richcraft Sensplex.
“Senators Sports & Entertainment, through our Sensplex model, is in the business of partnering with municipalities to deliver multi-purpose recreational facilities to the community,” Leeder’s statement read. “To date, we have had very preliminary discussions with city officials to express our interest in being part of a solution.”
On July 13, Capital Sports registered with the Quebec lobbyist registry, a necessary first step before engaging in talks with Gatineau city council.
In case you havnt been following the news on the other side of the river, a plan to replace the piques arena fell apart in June. Sens could now swoop in and save the day. It's interesting given that they're working on a lebreton flats proposal right now too. A hull arena could end up serving as the sens primary practice pad.
