Hamilton’s TD Coliseum wrapping up ‘transformation’ as doors open next month

The countdown is on as TD Coliseum in downtown Hamilton will open its doors to the public next month, with Paul McCartney hitting the stage.

After almost two years of renovations, it’s almost show time.

“From the very beginning it’s been called a renovation, but we are calling it a transformation, because really, it’s a new building,” said Ryan Zrenda, the Vice President of Project Management Oak View Group.

“People that have been here before, they are going to walk in — they are going to feel like this is a completely new building, because it is.”

Now after a $300 million makeover, the TD Coliseum on Bay Street in downtown Hamilton is being promoted as the premiere music, sports and live entertainment destination in southwestern Ontario.

Many big names are already set to perform at the venue, with Rod Stewart just announced Monday.

WATCH MORE: Counting down to the opening of Hamilton’s TD Coliseum

“Overall total seating is just shy of 19,000 with the ‘centre-stage’ set up,” said Zrenda. “Around 14,000 with a ‘180-[degree]’ set up, and then throughout the building we have a completely new food concession concept, bars — 20 to 30 new concepts throughout the building.”

The Artist Compound Area is where performers like Cardi B, Paul McCartney and Rod Steward will be hanging out before and after they hit the stage.

“Kind of like the Ritz Carlton experience, they can come in with their support staff and come, and spend the day — have their own shower, and have a great experience,” said Paul Young, the Executive Vice President of Project Management at Oak View Group.

While the finishing touches are still being done, the Oak View Group says they are ready to welcome Paul McCartney and ticket holders to a sold out show on Nov. 21.

“I know it looks like a mess, but most everything you see here is protection covering up a finished item,” said Young.

So far, there are at least 18 dates set for acts and special events between Monday and the end of April next year, that’s in addition to the Toronto Rock games.

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