Calgary Chamber welcomes announcement of Event Centre

The following statement is attributable to Deborah Yedlin, President and CEO of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce:

Calgary, April 25, 2023 – “We’re thrilled to see the Government of Alberta, the City of Calgary, Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation and Calgary Stampede collaborate and sign an agreement to build a new Event Centre, expanding Calgary’s Rivers District and Culture + Entertainment District. This city-building initiative will enhance the growth and reputation of our city as a top tourist destination, where there are year-round opportunities to engage in arts, sports and entertainment activities.

“It cannot be overstated how critical investments in infrastructure are to our economic growth. The Event Centre – as an anchor of the Culture + Entertainment District – will make Calgary more attractive as an international host city for conferences and events, with the surrounding infrastructure instrumental for creating opportunities for businesses, jobs and increasing the vibrancy and livability of Calgary.

“The structure of the Event Center agreement includes $1.5 million annually for 35 years allocated to community sport, drawing participation of Calgarians from all over the city. The unique design, intended to ensure activity 365 days a year will enhance the municipal tax base, advance the reputation of Calgary as a vibrant and metropolitan city and support the attraction of talent needed for continued economic growth and diversification.

“This is a significant investment in Calgary’s infrastructure and shows the world we are investing in ourselves and our future. The Event Centre itself, accompanied by provincial dollars being allocated to fund transportation and other infrastructure improvements ensures accessibility to all Calgarians. Today’s announcement will also attract other investments in the Rivers District, including hotels and other amenities needed to support the new BMO Event Centre, while tying together other investments being made by the City and Province in the downtown core.

“The Calgary Chamber looks forward to working closely with government and private sector partners to ensure businesses from across the city and of all sizes benefit from this announcement, with the goal of advancing long term economic opportunities that benefit all Calgarians.”

ABOUT THE CALGARY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Calgary Chamber exists to help businesses thrive. As the convenor and catalyst for a vibrant, inclusive and prosperous business community, the Chamber works to build strength and resilience among its members and position Calgary as a magnet for talent, diversification and opportunity. As an independent, non-profit, non-partisan organization, we build on our 131-year history to serve and advocate for businesses of all sizes, in all sectors and across the city.

Media opportunities

For media inquiries, please contact Shannon Hazlett, Senior Public Relations Advisor, at media@calgarychamber.com.