The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) has expressed concerns over Ottawa’s proposed plans for the new Lansdowne Park arena, calling it a significant setback that could jeopardize the financial sustainability of the Ottawa Charge.
According to Sean Moore, the city’s director of the Lansdowne Park redevelopment project, the new event center under the Lansdowne 2.0 redevelopment plan is set to have a seating capacity of 5,850, with the potential to accommodate up to 6,600 with added standing room. This is a decrease from the current 9,500 seats at the 58-year-old arena.
Amy Scheer, the league’s executive vice president of business operations, voiced disappointment over the reduced capacity, emphasizing the impact it may have on the team’s ability to thrive and engage with fans. The Ottawa Charge aimed to attract 6,500 attendees per game for the upcoming season, with weekday games drawing an average of 5,775 fans and weekend games averaging 8,348 spectators.
Scheer highlighted the league’s concerns about the mature fanbase and families in attendance, emphasizing that standing room-only options may not be suitable. Jayna Hefford, the PWHL’s executive vice president of hockey operations, echoed the sentiment, expressing disappointment in the situation, given the league’s positive reception in Ottawa.
The PWHL has engaged in discussions with the city and Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group (OSEG) regarding the arena’s capacity challenges but indicated that their concerns have not been adequately addressed. Despite the negotiations, Scheer affirmed the league’s desire to find a resolution that works for all parties, emphasizing their commitment to remaining in Ottawa.
Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe responded to the PWHL’s criticisms, characterizing them as a negotiating tactic employed by powerful stakeholders. He expressed surprise at the league’s concerns, citing past support for the new arena, and emphasized Ottawa’s desire to retain the Ottawa Charge.
While negotiations continue, the PWHL remains hopeful for a suitable resolution but maintains that the current arena proposal is not viable for the league. The city and OSEG have expressed willingness to work towards a mutually beneficial agreement to ensure the Ottawa Charge and PWHL’s continued presence in the city.