New Arena for Calgary Flames to Replace Saddledome

The Calgary Flames will be getting a new arena to replace the aging Saddledome, according to a deal struck between the team’s ownership and local governments. The Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corp., which owns the Saddledome and the Flames, announced the deal on Tuesday, along with the city of Calgary and the Alberta government. The entire project is estimated to cost $1.2 billion, with the arena alone costing approximately $800 million.

The new arena will provide a much-needed upgrade to the existing 40-year-old Saddledome, which currently seats over 19,000 for hockey games and hosted hockey and figure skating events during the 1988 Winter Olympics. Alongside the new arena, several other projects will be completed, including parking, transit improvements, and a new community rink. The enclosed plaza will also provide a space for the community to gather.

The city council voted unanimously in favor of the deal, which was described by Mayor Jyoti Gondek as a “generational investment in place-making.” The proposed site for the new arena is close to the Saddledome, and the project is expected to create jobs and boost the local economy.

While the Alberta government is not contributing directly to the arena, it plans to spend up to $300 million on public transit and road improvements, site utilities, reclamation, and other infrastructure. Additionally, the province will contribute $30 million to cover half the cost of the 1,000-seat community rink.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith emphasized the importance of the Flames to the community and the province, saying that “Calgary isn’t Calgary without the Flames, and Alberta isn’t Alberta without the Battle of Alberta.” Smith also noted that the Saddledome has served the community well but can no longer compete with newer buildings across North America for events, concerts, and sports.

Overall, the new arena is expected to be a significant upgrade for the Flames and the community, providing a modern and state-of-the-art facility for sporting events and other entertainment.