Letter: Build a new arena, Chamber of Commerce says

On behalf of the board of directors of the Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce, we wish to  convey our strong support for the new build proposal for the Sudbury Community Arena to be built in our downtown core.  

The city is now in possession of two consultants’ reports that identify major deficiencies in the 70-year-old arena that will take upwards of $178 million to prolong its life for another 25 years. For approximately the same cost, the city can build a larger more modern facility capable of hosting a broader range of events with an expected lifespan of 60 to 70 years. 

In our view, this is the only logical option to pursue. 

While there were some very good reasons for the city to back away from the former arena proposal, the city now runs the risk of sending a negative signal to potential builders, investors and partners if it sidesteps this major opportunity. 

If the council decides to do nothing, the empty downtown south district will likely remain that way for a long time and the opportunity to inject new life into downtown revitalization in a major way will be lost.  

We believe a new arena and events centre would become an anchor and major attractor for a hotel and convention centre operator and potentially other commercial and residential opportunities. It signals that Sudbury is open for business and to growing the economy, resulting in greater tax revenue. 

Sudbury has been identified as a AAA location for these types of investments and we should take advantage of the interest being afforded us. These types of developments would put Sudbury on the map and in play for major regional, national and international events and conferences. 

The chances for these things materializing and their associated benefits are significantly less under a renovation/retrofit option.

The chamber acknowledges the significant investment of a new build and doesn’t diminish its financial impact on the community. We would encourage council to ensure city staff effectively manages the scope of work, once it has been agreed upon and implements prudent cost controls, timelines and milestone dates to ensure it is delivered on time and on budget. Furthermore, we support creative methods for cost recovery to lessen the burden on taxpayers as much as  possible.

The mayor and councillors were elected by Sudburians to be visionaries, to attract investment and to promote growth that will benefit our entire city. Council should welcome the new build option not only for its ambition but for its future potential. Council can demonstrate its leadership by approving a project that will boost the economy and transform our community for decades to come.

We appreciate the opportunity to share our position with each of you. 

Debbi M Nicholson
President & CEO
Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce