TD Coliseum: A Landmark Reimagined for Hamilton

The TD Coliseum has opened, and its transformative! What was once a familiar arena is now a modern entertainment destination designed to serve Hamilton, Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area for decades to come.

This redevelopment is a complete reimagining of an iconic space, blending its historic character with contemporary design and technology. The result is a venue that attracts new audiences, revitalizes the downtown core, and positions Hamilton as a premier destination for live events.

"Standing in the newly reopened TD Coliseum on opening day, I was filled with pride for what our entire team has accomplished. This transformation is not just a redevelopment—it’s a testament to the passion, resilience, and collaborative spirit that define Hamilton, Southwestern Ontario, and the Greater Toronto Area,” said Randy Reymer, Senior Vice President and Area Manager, Southwestern Ontario. “Every creative solution, partnership, and shared memory brought us closer together. Today, the Coliseum stands as a space where history and innovation unite. I am grateful and proud of everyone who made this reimagining possible. Together, we’ve set the stage for decades of connection, entertainment, and community celebration."

A Project with Purpose

From the very beginning, this project carried a sense of meaning. During early site meetings, many subcontractors shared childhood memories of the Coliseum, from Disney on Ice to Metallica. Some even worked on the original construction decades ago. Bringing those stories full circle created a sense of pride that stayed with the team through every stage of the work.

EllisDon was selected for this project because of its proven experience with large, complex, and high-profile builds across Canada, including previous arena work. That expertise, combined with strong partnerships with Oak View Group (OVG), BBB Architects, Aquilla, Smith & Anderson, ME, and Entuitive, was critical to success. From shop drawing sessions to daily coordination, every effort focused on meeting milestones and delivering excellence.

Collaboration at Every Step

Delivering a project of this scale required seamless coordination. EllisDon’s Operations, Mechanical & Electrical, and Virtual Design & Construction teams remained engaged from preconstruction through closeout, ensuring continuity and speed.

Internally, project managers, coordinators, and superintendents worked as one, while external partners, including the client and architects, were on-site daily. This hands-on approach allowed decisions to happen in real time. RFIs were reviewed instantly, site walks organized within minutes, and design challenges resolved before they could slow progress. That level of collaboration kept the project moving with clarity and momentum.

Working within an existing facility brought surprises: hidden concrete, legacy wiring, and walls that didn’t match the drawings. Each discovery required quick thinking and creative solutions. Another major challenge was integrating construction with Jackson Square Mall operations. The arena ramp connects directly to the mall, which meant deliveries and major lifts had to be scheduled down to the hour. These moments showcased EllisDon’s ability to adapt and deliver under pressure.

Celebrating the Transformation

The reopening was a celebration of everyone who made this possible. At the soft opening, EllisDon’s own band, The EllisDominators, performed ahead of Earth, Wind & Fire, marking a moment that belonged to the entire team and community.

The TD Coliseum now stands as a space built for connection, entertainment, and pride. It reflects the creativity, skill, and commitment of every person who touched this project.