After a big facelift this summer, MTS Centre will once again see changes.
“True North acknowledges that sightlines have been negatively impacted and affects the view of those patrons seated near the loge entrance/access points at the 300-level,” said True North Sports and Entertainment in a letter addressed to 300-level fans Friday.
The issue came to light after upgrades were done at MTS Centre this summer as part of a multi-year plan to improve fan experience at the arena.
The enhancements included a new high-definition centre-hung HD scoreboard two and half times the size of the previous one, upgrades behind the scenes to video and audio production and new premium loge seating.
“To date, the building improvements have been well received,” said True North. “This summer, however, the construction of the premium loge seating has created some real and legitimate concerns for some Winnipeg Jets patrons.”
The loge improvements featured 278 premium seats accessible from the upper concourse just below the 300 section.
In September, some fans told CTV they were surprised by a wall of Plexiglas and metal to the front and side that blocks their view of a good portion of the ice.
True North said architects, engineers and constructors built mockups and an extensive study was done in the months leading up to the construction.
“A key concern during this study was ensuring that the front of the loge structure would not impair the sightlines of our 300-level patrons,” said True North. “While this concern was addressed, there was an under-appreciation for amount of steel and glass required for safety railings and loge access.”
The company said the issue was first noticed as the project neared completion and the railings were installed; however, it was further highlighted when ice and rink boards were installed just prior to the start of the 2015-16 pre-season.
In the letter, True North outlined several ways it will address obstructed views.
"All 6,500 fixed upper bowls seats will be raised two and a half inches from the existing seat platform...improving the sightlines of all 300-level patrons," the company said. "This project commenced on October 14, 2015 and is expected to be completed by November 30, 2015."
Interim measures addressing the access and railing systems, sight obstruction for specific season ticket holders and further timelines were also outlined in the letter.
True North reiterated it accepts responsibility for “the unforeseen problems created by the construction of the MTS Centre loge seating.”
They are asking for patience as the issues are resolved and said the company will keep 300-level patrons informed of the progress, including final approvals and timelines.
True North Letter to 300-Level Fans
