$3M donation to help repair arena in Elliot Lake

The City of Elliot Lake said Thursday it has received a $3-million donation from Edward and Suzanne Rogers for the Centennial Arena restoration.

The funds will be used for the structural repairs and upgrading of the arena, which has been closed since September 2023.

The $3 million donation will be used for the structural repairs of the arena in Elliot Lake and upgrading of the arena, which has been closed since September 2023. (Amanda Hicks/CTV News)

"We are so very grateful to Edward and Suzanne Rogers for their generosity," Mayor Andrew Wannan said in a news release.

"These funds will help get residents of all ages back on the ice and into the rink, including the Junior A Hockey team, Elliot Lakers and skating clubs."

The donation from the Rogers family will be used for structural repairs to the wooden structure of the arena, which was built in 1968.

The money will also pay for additional improvements and renovations within the building to make the arena more welcoming and accessible.

"Edward and I wanted to support and make a significant impact to the community and the City of Elliot Lake, bringing families into the arena this winter and throughout the year," Suzanne Rogers said in the release.

"Elliot Lake holds a special place in my heart and will always be a part of my life."

The arena is a landmark and meeting place for all residents.

The Rogers have a direct link to Elliot Lake as Suzanne Kolev Rogers was born in the city and resided in the community until a tragic mining accident took her father’s life.

The Rogers have been very supportive of initiatives in the community including multiple projects at St Joseph’s Hospital, day of mourning ceremonies and the Berghammer Christmas Dinner.

"The Rogers have been supporters of hockey at all levels and it’s wonderful to see them extend that to a small municipality in northern Ontario," said Rob deBortoli, CAO of Elliot Lake.

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In recognition of the donation, Elliot Lake will be entering into a 25-year agreement to rename the facility as the Rogers Arena.

"This additional donation to the arena fundraising campaign will directly have an impact on every resident of the community as the city will not need to raise these funds through taxation, ultimately leaving every resident with more money in their pocket,” Wannan said.

The planned reopening date for the arena is December.

The agreement will be signed at the City of Elliot Lake’s regular council meeting on Nov. 25.