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A long-planned new arena and mixed-use development for the Calgary Flames is now formally set after the team, the city of Calgary, and the province of Alberta completed a formal agreement on the $890 million project.
Set to break ground next year and with a projected opening of 2026 or 2027, the project will include a new arena of about 18,000 seats in downtown Calgary and a culture and entertainment district, including a public plaza, community ice rink, restaurants, retail, and residences.
The project will entail the replacement of the Flames’ current home, the Scotiabank Saddledome. This building, known for its iconic saddle-shaped roof and role in the 1988 Winter Olympics, has reached the age of 40 and no longer meets the current NHL standards. It will be demolished once the new arena is completed.
The city of Calgary will contribute $390 million toward the project, the province will chip in $240 million, and the Flames ownership Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corp. will pay $260 million.
Other CSEC teams will also play at the new venue, including the WHL Hitmen, AHL Wranglers, and CFL Stampeders.
The Flames will commit to the city in a 35-year lease as part of the deal.
In both financial structure and overall concept, the Flames’ project takes some influence from the team’s archrivals, the Edmonton Oilers, whose Rogers Place and ICE District now serve as a model for sports-centered urban development.
