With the future of the Calgary Flames somewhat in limbo, the Calgary Saddledome Foundation is exploring other uses for the aging but iconic arena.
In a report titled “Calgary Saddledome Potential Future Studies,” several options are given for the future of the Saddledome should the Flames move to play in a different city.
The Calgary Flames announced in September the team was bailing out of the search for a new arena in the city, citing differing visions for a new facility from what the city was proposing. Talk about the topic has been quiet ever since.
So, what could the ‘Dome be used for?
- Operation without major tenant: The venue could be used for concerts or other smaller-scale events. Cost: $1 million
- Recreation centre: This option would see the arena renovated to accommodate ice surfaces, soccer turf and commercial ventures. Cost: $165 million.
- Convention centre: This option would accommodate a convention hall and event space. Cost: $156 million.
- 6,000-capacity venue: This option would see the venue downsized to accommodate a smaller number of viewers. Cost: $53 million.
- 2026 Olympic development: Renovating the Saddledome into a venue that could host Olympic events, should the City of Calgary win a bid to host the 2026 Winter Games. Cost: $34 million.
What if there’s no way to repurpose the Saddledome?
Without another use for the arena, the report outlines options for decommission and demolition of the facility.
Decommissioning the Saddledome — shutting it down and removing it from operation — would mean ceasing all revenue-generating pursuits but maintaining minimal staff to keep the building safe and secure.
Decommission still wouldn’t offer a long-term solution for the building or site it sits on should it wind up vacant.
The final option outlined in the report is demolition of the Saddledome, pegged at $13 million. This would make the large site the arena sits on available for future development.
The report notes that demolition of the building would mean the “emotional loss of a revered building and prominent icon in Calgary’s skyline.”
The report was obtained by the Canadian Taxpayers Association through a freedom of information request.
WATCH: Who’s going to pay for a new NHL Arena in Calgary? The City of Calgary says it’s willing to contribute to a new NHL rink, but the Calgary Flames say the taxpayers contribution isn’t enough. Reid Fiest reports.
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