Rogers Arena is owned and operated by Canucks Sports ∓ Entertainment. The facility has a seating capacity of 18,910 for hockey and 19,700 for basketball. It was built at a total cost of CAN$160 million with the funds coming from private financing. The event area measures 475,000 square feet with the playing ice located slightly below ground. Arena concessions are handled by Aramark and all employees within the facility are registered as trade union members.
Architectural services were provided by Brisbin, Brook and Beynon out of Toronto, Canada. Structural engineering services were handled by Stuart Olson Dominion while general contractor services were handled through a joint venture partnership between Huber, Hunt ∓ Nichols/Dominion Construction Joint Venture. Between 2006 and 2008, the video equipment and audio sound system were replaced at a cost exceeding CAN$10 million.
During its 20 years in service, the arena has operated under several names. When the faculty was completed, General Motors signed a 15-year naming rights agreement with Canucks Sports ∓ Entertainment. Early in 2010, the facility was used to host ice hockey events for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games under the temporary name "Canada Hockey Place". Shortly thereafter, the naming agreement with GM expired and new 10-year agreement was signed with Rogers Communications.
Fun facts about Rogers Arena:
When the facility was used to host hockey games for the 2010 Winter Olympics, it was the first time in Olympic history that a professional sized rink was used. In 1998, Rogers Arena was given the honor of hosting the 1998 NHL All-Star Game, a game featuring Canadian hero and all-time hockey great Wayne Gretzky. Later in 1998, the arena acted as the host facility for the NBA draft. In 2006, the site provided similar services for the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. In 2011, Rogers Arena was chosen to host the site's first and only NCAA Division I basketball game. The game was played between Gonzaga University and the University of Hawaii.