The Canada Life Centre North End Renovation and TicketMaster Suite Project was a full-scale renovation undertaken during the Winnipeg Jets' 2023 off-season. The project involved the removal of the Moxies Restaurant on the main concourse, the expansion and renovation of the Budweiser Lounge bar, the creation of the Scotia Bank Club Premium Lounge on the event level and the conversion of three private suites into the TicketMaster Lounge and Loge Seating. Given the importance of maintaining arena operations, PCL worked closely with True North Sports and Entertainment (TNSE) to ensure construction was completed in time for the 2023/2024 NHL season.
To mitigate operational disruptions, PCL collaborated with TNSE and their operations team to develop a detailed sequencing and phasing plan. A top priority was ensuring public safety and maintaining arena functionality during events. PCL implemented a comprehensive hoarding plan to manage the heavy public interface, ensuring safe and efficient navigation within the facility.
Flexibility was crucial, as the project had to adapt to frequent schedule changes. Throughout construction, nearly 40 additional events – including Winnipeg Sea Bears games, the World Police and Fire Games and over 20 concerts – were incorporated into the facility’s calendar. Many of these events were confidential and only disclosed after work had begun. To accommodate, PCL adjusted working hours, ensuring crews exited the site before 2 p.m. on event days, aligning with TNSE’s operational needs.
A proactive approach to planning allowed PCL to accelerate the schedule by initiating behind-the-scenes work in 2022, during the Jets’ regular season. This enabled a smooth transition into full construction mode after the season ended, reducing future event disruptions. Although unforeseen factors – such as the Jets’ early playoff elimination – extended parts of the schedule, PCL worked with TNSE to strategically postpone certain activities, ensuring revenue-generating events could proceed. For example, the old Moxies bar remained operational for an upcoming concert.
Despite these challenges, the project reached substantial completion on schedule, well before the start of the new Jets season. PCL’s team efficiently addressed outstanding work and deficiencies between events, allowing TNSE to fully utilize the upgraded amenities. The success of the project was a testament to the strong collaboration between all stakeholders involved.
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