SEPT-ÎLES, JUNE 22, 2026 – The Port of Sept-Îles is pleased to announce a financial contribution of $350,000 toward the construction of the new arena for the City of Sept-Îles.
During a site visit attended by Kateri Champagne Jourdain, Minister and Member of the National Assembly for Duplessis, and Benoit Méthot, Mayor of Sept-Îles, the Port’s Interim President and Chief Executive Officer, Joël Chouinard, confirmed the Port Authority’s commitment to this major community project.
Quotes
“The new arena is an investment in our community’s quality of life, attractiveness, and vitality. As an essential piece of infrastructure for community development, it will provide residents with a modern gathering place for sports, events, and community activities. Through this contribution, the Port of Sept-Îles reaffirms its commitment to supporting transformative projects that generate lasting benefits for the entire community.”
– Joël Chouinard, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer, Port of Sept-Îles
“When I committed to supporting this project in 2022, I was convinced of its importance for our region. Through a $24 million investment from our government, we helped bring this ambitious project to life. Today, seeing construction well underway fills me with pride. I commend the Port’s commitment to supporting the Sept-Îles arena. This community-focused facility will become a gathering place and a source of pride that will benefit generations to come.”
– Kateri Champagne Jourdain, Member for Duplessis and Minister of Natural Resources and Forests
“This arena project is the result of strong collaboration between our public and private partners, for the benefit of the entire community. The Port of Sept-Îles has long played a key role in the vitality of our region, and not only from an economic standpoint. Its financial contribution to this transformative project demonstrates a deep commitment to our community and its development. I would like to sincerely thank the Port of Sept-Îles team for this significant support, which will allow young and old alike to remain active and thrive through sport for generations to come.”
– Benoit Méthot, Mayor of the City of Sept-Îles
Valued Partners
The new arena represents a total investment of $78.5 million. The City of Sept-Îles received $20 million in funding from the Government of Québec through the Recreational, Sports and Outdoor Infrastructure Financial Assistance Program, as well as $4 million from the Société du Plan Nord. Rio Tinto IOC and SFP Pointe-Noire are also contributing to the project. With today’s announcement, financial partnerships now total $26.1 million.
About the Project
The new arena will feature an NHL-standard ice rink and an amphitheatre with seating for 1,800 spectators. The facility will be fully accessible, including for individuals with reduced mobility. It will also be equipped with high-performance, energy-efficient refrigeration and ventilation systems that will enhance spectator comfort and allow the arena to operate year-round.
Construction began in the spring of 2025 and is expected to be completed in the fall of 2026.
A project summary is available on the City of Sept-Îles website under the Leisure and Culture / Arenas section.
Sources:
City of Sept-Îles
Amélie Robillard
Communications Advisor
Tel.: 418-964-3344
amelie.robillard@septiles.ca
Port of Sept-Îles
Frédérick J. Tétreault
Director, Communications and Public Relations
Tel.: 418-965-3764
ftetreault@portsi.com