The Ottawa Senators are closing in on an agreement to clear a major hurdle to build a new arena at LeBreton Flats.
The Senators and the Algonquin Anishinabe Nation confirmed on Thursday morning that they are on track for the framework of an economic partnership for a new rink at the land located 10 minutes West of Parliament Hill.
This is an important step in the process of building a new arena.
“Through ongoing discussions, both parties have identified a strong alignment in their commitment to creating Ottawa–Gatineau’s next great gathering place — one that recognizes and honours the deep cultural and historical significance of these lands to the Algonquin Anishinabe Nation,” the two parties said in a statement.
“This collaboration reflects a shared desire to bring communities together while respecting the history, identity, and future of the land. The Algonquin Anishinabe Nation and Capital Sports Development Inc. / Senators Sports & Entertainment look forward to continuing these conversations and building on this important relationship as plans for the site evolve.”
Both parties are now working on finalizing the memorandum of understanding and will release more details when the paperwork is completed.
Senators owner Michael Andlauer agreed to purchase 11 acres of land from the National Capital Commission last August to build a new rink and a surrounding Ice District.
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The Ottawa Citizen has reported that the Senators have agreed to pay $37 million for the land when the sale is complete with the National Capital Commission, which is expected to happen later this year.
The Algonquin Anishinabe Nation is comprised of the following 11 Algonquin Anishinabe First Nation communities from both sides of the Kichi Sibi (Ottawa River): Kitigan Zibi, Pikwàkanagàn, Abitibiwinni, Apitipi Anicinapek, Barriere Lake, Kebaowek, Kitcisakik, Lac Simon, Long Point, Timiskaming and Wolf Lake.
How long will it take to build a new arena?
Senators president Cyril Leeder predicted in an interview with the Ottawa Citizen in January that it will take a calendar year of trying to solve issues, which include decontaminating the site, working with Indigenous groups, designing the site and financing.
All these elements need to be addressed before the Senators can confirm a timeline for breaking ground. Leeder said once the club does put shovels in the ground, the timeline to build a new rink is 34 months.
An agreement with the First Nations will be a major step, but officials with the NCC will also have to put an agreement in place with the Algonquin Anishinabe First Nation communities as part of this deal.
More to come…