CCCMI Renovation Project
About the Proposed Renovation
The goal of the Charlottetown Civic Centre renovation project is to ensure the venue can continue as a leading destination that connects community, sport and entertainment.
The aging facility (built in 1990) has been assessed as having significant remaining useful life; however, it’s in need of major repairs and building system improvements. Our goal is to address these needs and more. We believe the venue needs to be modernized and expanded to create a better experience for users and fans; to create more opportunities for community access and ultimately, to remain competitive and attract top-tier events.
The renovation is expected to be completed over a three-year period in order to minimize disruptions and keep the facility open to users and spectators throughout the majority of the construction phase.
The current and next steps of this project will continue to be updated here.
Background
- The Charlottetown Civic Centre was constructed in 1990 in support of the 1991 Canada Games
- In 2003 CCCMI’s Board of Directors authorized a review that looked at an increased seating capacity, additional suites, a second floor concourse and separation between performers (or players) and patrons
- The reports were presented in 2004, however it was decided at the time not to pursue the renovation
- In 2013, the Charlottetown Civic Centre was renamed to Eastlink Centre Charlottetown2013
- In 2024, the Board of Directors requested an updated assessment of the proposed renovation project and associated costs from the 2004 reports
- Currently, the trade centre and arena host more than 100 events each year which see more than 300,000 visits
Proposed Features
- New exterior façade as part of the 7,800 sq. m. build out
- More spectator seating, 5,000+ fixed seats
- Walking track located on Level 2
- Two new multi-purpose community rooms
- More accessible seating areas
- Standing areas overlooking event floor
- Universal washrooms and a nursing room
- Accessible dressing rooms, including washrooms and showers
- Water refill stations throughout
- Two escalators in the renovated lobby
- Two new public elevators, for a total of three
- A service elevator for deliveries and large equipment
- Secure backstage/back-of-house area
- New box suites
- Space to accommodate a second Zamboni in the future
- Main floor administrative offices with street front access
The renovation will also include major upgrades to the building systems (mechanical, HVAC, electrical and plumbing) to improve operational and energy efficiencies.
Proposed Design
Coming soon!
We Want to Hear From You!
Online Survey - check back soon!
- Survey opens Tuesday, June 24.
2025 Project Timeline and Milestones
February
Funding support for the architectural and engineering design phase confirmed in the City of Charlottetown’s 2025-26 Capital Budget
March and April
Project kick off, architectural and engineering design phase begins
May
Stakeholder engagement begins
June
Stakeholder and community engagement on proposed design
July to December
Designs finalized and construction documents prepared
Latest News
June 12, 2025: Charlottetown Civic Centre Designs for Proposed Renovation Now Underway
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the renovation?
Renovations and improvements to the Charlottetown Civic Centre (known as the Eastlink Centre Charlottetown) are much needed and long over due.
The goal is,
- to create more opportunities for community access;
- to create a better experience for users and fans; and,
- to remain competitive and attract top-tier events.
The renovation will,
- increase the overall seating capacity, to host larger scale events such as the Brier and Memorial Cup;
- enhance safety and security features for both patrons and players/performers;
- improve venue flow and the overall visitor experience, and,
- optimize sustainability and energy efficiency opportunities.
What is the timeline for construction?
The construction timeline will be estimated once the tender documents are prepared at the end of 2025.
It is important to note that project funding has only been secured for the initial phase – architectural and engineering design. Project funding (for construction) has not yet been secured.
How much will the renovation cost?
The high-level estimate for the proposed renovation was initially estimated at $38M, however the architectural and engineering design phase will help refine this number and determine a more accurate project estimate.
Will the facility be closed during construction?
The detailed construction plan has not yet been prepared, however it is our goal to remain open as much as possible and throughout the majority of construction. Full venue closures will be limited but necessary to complete the integration and some of the building system upgrades.
What type of energy efficiency and carbon building strategies will be incorporated?
To comply with energy efficiency codes, the facility’s expanded design will prioritize reducing energy consumption through efficient building envelope design, the integration of high-performance mechanical systems, and advanced lighting and control systems. This will include incorporating features such as advanced levels of insulation, the initial detailing of air sealing techniques, and use of high performance glazing to minimize heat loss and air infiltration, as well as the integration of energy-efficient HVAC equipment and lighting fixtures to optimize energy usage.