Lansdowne 2.0 is set for a final decision at Ottawa city council following the finance and corporate services committee’s endorsement of the approximately $419 million project on Thursday. The committee approved the development with an 8-3 vote after a lengthy, multi-day meeting where numerous individuals provided input.
The proposed redevelopment of Lansdowne aims to enhance accessibility on the premises, revamp the hockey arena and event center, upgrade the north-side stands, and introduce new residential spaces. Proponents argue that these upgrades are crucial to maintaining the Glebe site’s viability for hosting major sports and entertainment events.
However, critics have raised concerns about various aspects of the project, including the financing structure and the extended partnership with Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group (OSEG), the organization behind the Ottawa Redblacks and the Ottawa 67s. Of particular concern is the uncertainty surrounding the continued presence of the sports teams at Lansdowne beyond their existing commitment until 2032.
Roger Greenberg, OSEG’s executive chairman and managing partner, reassured council that the Ottawa Redblacks and the Ottawa 67s have a strong connection to Lansdowne and confirmed their commitment to the site. To provide additional assurance, Greenberg proposed extending the teams’ stay until at least 2042, a move that Councilor Shawn Menard supported through a motion.
Menard, a vocal critic of the project, also successfully pushed for an increase in the allocation of air rights profits toward affordable housing, raising the amount from $9.75 million to $22.75 million through another adopted motion.
The financing model for the Lansdowne 2.0 project involves a total debt of $694 million, which the city plans to repay by allocating $17.4 million annually. A portion of this payment will be funded by raising the municipal accommodation tax (MAT) on hotels from five percent to six, with $2 million of the additional revenue earmarked for debt servicing. Councilor Jeff Leiper emphasized the importance of this tax increase in reducing the financial burden on taxpayers.
Despite some concerns about the future value of the fixed $2 million contribution, a motion was passed to link the amount to 40 percent of the MAT increase’s revenue, allowing for potential growth over time.
After a thorough discussion during the council meeting, the majority of councilors voted in favor of the Lansdowne 2.0 plan, with only a few dissenting voices. The proposal will now advance to the full city council for a final decision in the coming week, marking the culmination of the public debate on the project. Supporters highlighted the benefits of a new event venue, while critics suggested alternative investments in existing city facilities to enhance accessibility and competitiveness in the sporting arena.