CALGARY – Today, the designs for Calgary’s new arena, Scotia Place, were unveiled, signaling a bold new chapter in the city’s development. The new 18,000-seat arena will replace the Scotiabank Saddledome, which has been home to the Calgary Flames for over 40 years.
The ceremony began with a warm welcome from Mayor Gondek, who highlighted the significance of the location, acknowledging the ancestral lands of the Indigenous peoples at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers. She thanked the elders for their blessings and reflected on the positive changes in Calgary’s downtown area, emphasizing the city’s commitment to investing in its future.
“This new event center is another bold step forward,” said Mayor Gondek. “It’s a message that we are invested in creating spaces where everyone belongs, that we are a city that takes its role in hospitality and tourism seriously.”
Premier Danielle Smith highlighted that the project would not only rejuvenate the area but also bring substantial economic and social benefits. Smith pointed out the expected surge in job creation, both during the construction phase and through ongoing operations, which would provide a much-needed boost to the local economy. Additionally, she underscored the arena’s capacity to enhance tourism, drawing more visitors to Calgary and fostering a vibrant urban environment.
Bill Johnson, Design Principal at HOK Sports Design Co., introduced the design concept, which draws inspiration from Indigenous perspectives and natural landscapes. The arena’s design elements symbolize ice, land, sky, and the home fire, reflecting Calgary’s unique heritage and environment.
“The best buildings tell stories,” Johnson stated. “It was important for us to create a design that resonates with this very special place.”
The arena, which will serve as the new home for the Calgary Flames, the Wranglers, Roughnecks, and Hitmen, promises to be a state-of-the-art facility that will host top-tier musical acts, entertainers, and world-class athletes. It is designed to be a vibrant community hub, contributing to Calgary’s culture and entertainment district.
Councillor Sonya Sharp, chair of the event center committee, emphasized the project’s importance in Calgary’s downtown redevelopment strategy. She highlighted the arena’s role as a community amenity and its potential to stimulate the local economy.
“This building is not just a sports facility,” Sharp said. “It’s a place where dreams will be realized, where champions will be made, and where our community will come together to celebrate.”
Robert Hayes, President and CEO of Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation, announced the arena’s official name, Scotia Place, and praised the collaborative efforts that made the project possible. He highlighted the partnership with Scotiabank and the involvement of the Indigenous Advisory Group, ensuring the arena is a welcoming space for all.
The event also featured remarks from Indigenous leaders, including Councillor Wesley Crow Shoe from the Piikani Nation and Councillor Rod Hunter from the Bearspaw Nation. They expressed gratitude for the acknowledgment of Indigenous lands and the opportunities for employment and tourism that the project will bring.
“Our Indigenous people have invested in this kind of venture by sharing our lands since the signing of the treaties back in 1877,” Crow Shoe said. “We look forward to working with Calgary Sports and Entertainment in the future.”
The project, costing $926.4 million, will feature public plazas, an attached parkade, and a community rink. The majority of the funding comes from the municipal government, contributing over $850 million, with an additional $30 million from the province for the community rink and $40 million from the Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation (CSEC). The CSEC will also make annual payments starting at $17 million, increasing by one percent each year.
The unveiling of Scotia Place marks a significant milestone in Calgary’s evolution as a world-class city. The new arena is set to become a landmark attraction, driving economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for Calgarians and Albertans alike. The project embodies a vision of inclusivity, cultural celebration, and community spirit, promising to create lasting memories for generations to come.
As construction begins, the excitement and energy surrounding Scotia Place are palpable.