Federal Government Hears Arena Pitch From Hope

Two federal representatives visited Chatham-Kent Monday, touring the former Navistar location with Chatham-Kent Mayor Randy Hope, who pitched the property as a prospective location for a new twin-pad arena.

According to a release by the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, the Mayor stated “the purpose of the visit was to give federal officials a working knowledge of the site, which he is promoting as the location for a new twin-pad arena and multi-use recreation and transportation hub.”

Amarjeet Sohi, Federal Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, and Peter Fragiskatos MP for London North Centre were the two representatives present to hear Hope’s pitch regarding a $52-56 million dollar facility, which would require both federal and provincial grants.

“When Chatham-Kent benefits, the entire region benefits,” MP Peter Fragiskatos said in the release.

Hope pitched the idea to local community members earlier this year during his annual address.

Council later discussed the details of a plan, which did not specify the Navistar location as the lone potential site for a new arena.