Not long after the National Capital Commission announced they had struck a deal in principle with the Ottawa Senators-backed RendezVous LeBreton group to redevelop LeBreton Flats, the principal man behind the bid released a video thanking fans.
In a 51-second video, published by the Ottawa Senators on YouTube, team owner Eugene Melnyk speaks from the Canadian War Museum "where it all started just over two years ago."
Melnyk says the redevelopment of the Flats will be "one of the greatest developments ever undertaken in the Capital region" and something that will make the whole city proud.
"In fact, It will have a state-of-the-art entertainment centre which will house the Ottawa Senators hockey club and all of its wonderful fans," Melnyk says.
He ends the video by thanking the NCC, the Ottawa Senators organization and "more importantly, you, the fans."
The video shows a much softer Eugene Melnyk that the one who, just hours before the NHL 100 Classic game at Lansdowne Park, suggested he might move the Senators out of the city if ticket sales don't improve.
Melnyk did not directly address the media after Thursday morning's announcement by the NCC regarding LeBreton Flats, but did issue a statement.
"My goal has always been to provide the Senators with home ice advantage," Melnyk tweeted. "Though there are still many hurdles to overcome I’m thrilled to be one step closer to a more enjoyable fan experience and realizing a vision for LeBreton Flats."