The FirstOntario Centre will undergo a significant makeover in the autumn, and the Hamilton Bulldogs will soon relocate to Brantford for the following three seasons.
The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) franchise and the city of Brantford are in negotiations for a deal that would not only move the team but also rename the Civic Centre and invest in improvements to the building.
At a meeting on February 7, Brantford council members will examine a plan that would improve the city’s arena for an estimated $7.5 million, with the Bulldogs footing the majority of the bill.
A staff report suggests that the relocation be approved and that the modifications be paid for out of the casino reserve money.
The 1967-built Brantford and District Civic Centre has 3,000 seats in its current configuration.
According to the idea, the “Brantford Bulldogs” would start competing in 2023 for a three-year period with three one-year extensions.
According to a press release from Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis, “Brantford is developing fast and would benefit greatly from an enhanced premium multi-use event center in the downtown to service existing residents and attract new ones.” Video Here