The Government of Alberta is investing more than $100 million in Calgary's arts infrastructure

The province reiterated its support for the arts in its latest budget when it announced increased funding for the Alberta Arts Fund.

Arts and Culture Minister Tanya Feer was downtown Friday to announce $103 million over seven years to renovate the Arts Commons and Olympic Plaza.

420 million dollars of municipal funds have already been announced and will go towards the first phase of the project.

Private fundraising is also ongoing.

“This is one of the largest investments the Alberta government has ever made in the arts and demonstrates our commitment to supporting the arts for all Albertans and for generations to come,” Fehr said in his Channel X video announcement.

“Our mission at Arts Commons is to continue to support a thriving arts sector,” said Arts Commons President and CEO Alex Sarnian, “where Albertans of all backgrounds can enjoy our facilities.”

“We want the design of the Plaza to be expedited,” Sarnian said at Friday's press event, “we want to open up a facility that flows smoothly, especially indoors, so that Calgarians don't get tired of construction.” and outside”.

The project is expected to create approximately 3,500 full-time construction jobs.

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STATEMENT

The city's Chamber of Commerce weighed in on the announcement, praising the investment as a key component of the long-term transformation of Calgary's downtown infrastructure.

“This infrastructure investment is critical to attracting and retaining talent in Calgary, increasing vibrancy and revitalizing downtown. It will also strengthen Calgary as a leading arts city, notably by creating the largest cultural infrastructure project in Canadian history.

“The arts sector is a powerful economic engine for the city and province, driving tourism and growing our creative industries. In fact, this project alone will bring $424 million in GDP to our province's economy and provide full-time employment for over 3,500 construction workers. Beyond generating revenue, our arts and culture scene fosters a sense of belonging and connection and reflects our diversity as Albertans.

“Infrastructure investments are critical to support the influx of nearly 200,000 people who immigrated to Alberta last year. Such investments support the needs of a growing population, increase economic activity, and develop thriving communities that attract and retain residents and businesses.

“Calgary's arts sector – and our city more broadly – will transform by 2030, with Calgary home to a new event center and entertainment district, the Glenbow Museum, the BMO Center and now the Arts Commons Transformation. These projects demonstrate the transformative visions that can be realized through collaboration between industry, community and all levels of government.”

On LinkedIn Friday, Sarnian was full of euphoria.

“What a day for the art community!” What a day for Calgary and Alberta,” he wrote. “What a day for the arts in Canada!

“It really took a village to get to this point,” he said. “There's a lot of work to do, but for now we're celebrating!”