Orillia reopens former Brian Orser Arena after $12.4M renovations

Brian Orser Arena on Gill Street in Orillia, Ont., on Tues., March 12, 2024. (CTV News/Rob Cooper)

The former Brian Orser Arena in Orillia is reopening this month after a major renovation, with a new name - the Gill Street Community Complex.

The City said skating programs started up at the Gill Street arena over the weekend while final touches, including remaining furnishings and minor work, continue behind the scenes.

The arena will be reopened gradually to allow regular programming to resume while preparations are finalized for the official grand reopening Dec. 31.

The project marks the first large-scale renovation of the entire facility since it opened its doors more than 50 years ago.

According to the City, construction began in spring 2024 and focused on modernizing the building’s systems while significantly improving accessibility and the overall user experience.

“Since the facility first opened in 1974, this arena has long been a place where our community comes together,” stated Mayor Don McIsaac. “The improvements made here reflect our commitment to ensuring recreation is inclusive and welcoming for everyone.”

New Features

New accessible features include a ramp to bleacher seating, a fully accessible public entrance and accessible parking spaces close to the doors. The facility also includes accessible washrooms, designated viewing areas in both the warming lobby and rink space, and new public signage that incorporates braille.

Team bench areas were redesigned to better support sledge hockey, with removable benches and glazed boards installed to improve sightlines and usability.

In addition to the arena upgrades, the complex now includes a larger, enhanced meeting space for community use. The multi-purpose room has a separate entrance and kitchen, and is intended to support community programs, workshops, rentals and gatherings.

Holiday Events

To celebrate the holiday season, the city is offering several free, sponsored community skates throughout December.

The grand reopening celebration will include a cake cutting and light refreshments at 9 a.m., followed by two free community skates from 9:15 to 9:50 a.m. and 10 to 10:50 a.m.

"We look forward to welcoming everyone back to this renewed community hub," the City concluded.