The Ottawa Senators are a professional ice hockey team based in Ottawa, Canada. The team has been playing at the Canadian Tire Centre since 1996, which is located in the suburban area of Kanata. However, there have been discussions about building a new arena for the Senators in downtown Ottawa. This move could have significant benefits for the city and the team.
One of the most significant benefits of a downtown arena is the economic impact it could have on the city. A new arena would attract more visitors to the downtown area, which would increase spending on restaurants, hotels, and other businesses. According to a study by the Conference Board of Canada, a new arena could generate up to $2.1 billion in economic activity over 30 years. This would create jobs and boost the local economy.
Another benefit of a downtown arena is the potential for increased attendance at games. The Canadian Tire Centre is located in Kanata, which is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Ottawa. This distance can be a deterrent for fans who live in the city and do not want to make the trip to the suburbs. A downtown arena would be more accessible to fans who live in the city and could attract more fans to games.
A new arena could also improve the Senators’ image and reputation. The team has struggled in recent years, and a new arena could help reinvigorate the team and attract new players. A downtown arena would also provide a better game-day experience for fans, with more amenities and better transportation options.
In addition to these benefits, a downtown arena could also have a positive impact on the environment. The Canadian Tire Centre is located in a suburban area, which means that fans have to drive to games. This results in increased traffic congestion and carbon emissions. A downtown arena would be more accessible by public transportation, reducing the number of cars on the road and lowering carbon emissions.
Overall, a downtown arena for the Ottawa Senators could be a game-changer for the city and the team. It could generate significant economic activity, increase attendance at games, improve the team’s image and reputation, and have a positive impact on the environment. While there are still many details to be worked out, the potential benefits of a downtown arena make it an exciting prospect for Ottawa.
