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The Calgary Flames have struck a deal with their city to develop a new arena — and much more.
The team, city, and province of Alberta reached an agreement on a $880 million project that includes an arena, a smaller community rink for amateur games and Flames practices, and a “suite of public amenities and public infrastructure” in the surrounding area, officials said.
“It’s not a single venue or a single building,” said city councilmember Sonya Sharp, who chaired the committee on reaching a new deal. “The completed district will attract new people, more events and greater investment.”
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said that the rink would be put into the hosting rotation for future All-Star Games and drafts.
The arena is expected to cost $587 million of the total sum. Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation, which owns the Flames, will contribute $261.3 million over 35 years, including $29.4 million up front.
The development will also house CSEC’s other properties: the Calgary Wranglers of the American Hockey League, Calgary Hitmen of the Western Hockey League, and Calgary Roughnecks of the National Lacrosse League.
Alberta plans to spend $220.3 million on public transit, road improvements, and other infrastructure projects in the surrounding area, as well as another $22 million to cover half the cost of the community rink.
The Flames currently play in the 40-year-old Scotiabank Saddledome.
