The City of Calgary and the Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation (CSEC) have agreed to restart formal discussions about a new event centre. These discussions bring an opportunity to realize a modern and forward-looking sport, arts and entertainment venue for Calgary.
“We’re at the beginning of an important stage,” said Councillor Sonya Sharp, chair of the Event Centre Committee. “A new event centre for our city will attract investment and international events. It will have enormous benefits for visitors and for Calgarians. We look forward to working with CSEC for our mutual benefit and for a result that works for everyone.”
With CSEC and the city now entering formal discussions, the city’s third party have fulfilled their mandate and their work has concluded. Moving forward, the city will now be represented by CAA ICON, who are experts in structuring deals for major sports and entertainment venues in North America and Europe. CAA ICON will have local support from Altus Group’s Calgary office.
The city and CSEC have agreed time is of the essence to reach a formal agreement on a new event centre, while ensuring they take the time necessary to reach an agreement that will meet the city and CSEC’s needs.
The previous deal between the two parties fell apart late last year, just weeks before construction was set to begin on the $650-million project.
A new event centre remains important to Calgary and its growth as a modern city. The new facility will be a year-round community destination attracting people, events, investment and redevelopment/revitalization. Home to the Calgary Flames and other professional sport teams, the new event centre will host global and local art and entertainment events, and be an amenity for Calgarians and visitors to enjoy.
