Calgary Flames Reignite Arena Negotiations with City Hall

The Calgary Flames and the City of Calgary have returned to the negotiating table over a new downtown arena, two years after the previous deal collapsed amid cost overruns and public backlash.

New Proposal

The revised proposal envisions a $650-million multi-use event centre in the Victoria Park neighbourhood, replacing the aging Scotiabank Saddledome. Under the new terms, the Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation (CSEC) would cover approximately 55% of costs, with the city contributing the remainder through a community revitalization levy.

“We’ve learned from the past,” said Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “Any deal must be fair to taxpayers and deliver genuine community benefit beyond hockey.”

What’s Different

Unlike the previous agreement, the new proposal includes a fixed-price construction contract to prevent cost overruns, revenue sharing from non-hockey events, and a commitment to incorporate affordable housing in the surrounding development.

CSEC president John Bean said the ownership group is “committed to getting this right.”

“The Saddledome has served this city well, but it’s time for a world-class facility that Calgarians can be proud of,” Bean said.

Public Skepticism

Many Calgarians remain sceptical of public funding for a billionaire-owned sports franchise. A recent poll found 52% of residents oppose any public money going toward the project.

“Fix our roads, fund our schools, and then we can talk about arenas,” said resident Kevin Marsh in a letter to city council.

Council is expected to review the detailed proposal in early 2023, with a public engagement process to follow.