News & Updates
Northern College Sports Dome to Open Early 2027
TIMMINS, ON: Construction of the 130,000 square foot facility began with a ceremonial groundbreaking in late March, with site preparation currently in full swing. The facility is slated for completion in December of 2026, with a grand opening planned for early 2027.
“From inception to completion, this transformative community project will have taken a little over two years to make a reality,” stated Mitch Dumas, Northern College President & CEO. “This incredible turn-around would not have been possible without the support of our Provincial and Municipal Governments, community and industry partners.”
“The Dome is the first sports facility constructed in Timmins since the Whitney Arena in 1982 and places no additional tax burden on Timmins residents due to how we’ve funded its construction and operations,” added Dumas.
The 20-million-dollar Sports Dome is partially funded through Northern’s capital reserve fund – financial resources restricted for the development of capital infrastructure acquisition, construction, renovation – and the remaining portion through the generous support of the Provincial Municipal Government, community and industry partners.
The Institution is still actively seeking opportunities for sponsorship, collaboration and support to contribute to programming, activities and facility costs to support the long-term success of the facility
The Sports Dome is designed to not only enhance student health and wellness, sports and recreation, and learning opportunities, but also serve as a vital community hub for fitness, recreational, business activities and more. The College estimates that net new revenue streams may exceed $750,000 once the facility is fully operational.
“The creation of this unique facility in our region arrives at a critical point for the College,” stated Evan Sonkin, Senior Vice President, Corporate Services at Northern. “Northern College, like others in the postsecondary sector, is facing significant reductions in revenue due to declining international enrolment. This Sports Dome, and the revenue it will bring to the College, is an ideal template for alternative revenue generation in the College’s current economic climate: It’s an initiative that supports the students, staff and communities we serve while simultaneously boosting revenue.”
Designed to be a community sports hub, the facility will accommodate numerous court layouts and sport types, allowing year-round access for individuals, community clubs, sports associations, teams and athletic camps, all while providing fitness facilities with membership access and programming.
“This will be a Northern College building. Its programming and facilities will be tailored to meet the needs of our students, our staff, and our broader local communities,” stated Sonkin. “In keeping the spirit of collaboration that has made this facility a reality, it is our hope that the programming available to the public will also be a collaborative effort, to the benefit of all who call Timmins and the surrounding region home.”
Northern College will continue to provide updates on the construction progress along with information on programming, pricing and scheduling as the facility approaches completion.