Consultants review Calgary Event Center design to be unveiled to the public

The event center committee got its first look at the new building design and committee chairman Cone. Sonya Sharp said she preferred this version to the final concept.

The committee met for the first time since October 2023 to get a closed-session project update on the $1.2 billion plan and to see preliminary designs for the arena concept. Earlier this year, concrete agreements were issued for the new Event Center project, and stripping and leveling work has already begun, along with utility lines.

Number. Sharp said schematic drawings will be submitted to the Calgary Planning Commission (CPC) later this week. The meeting will also be held behind closed doors.

“This is what this project is all about and making sure the design, scope and budget deliver what was promised to Calgarians,” he said.

“I can't give any advice. I will say that I am very pleased with the progress of the project and we want to make sure that we are delivering the best possible project and event center for Calgarians.

Sharpe said the process is not unusual; The initial design for Arts Commons went through a similar process before the concepts were released to the public. He said the event center will not receive special treatment, it will go through the same process as any other project.

When the design goes to CTC, they provide additional input and may request changes to the design. According to Sharp, the design team will then review the proposed concepts for development approval with input from the CPC.

He expected to see something to go back to the event center committee in mid-June, with a development permit likely to be issued in early July. That's when Calgarians will see the design.

“We like to say that we are renewing the summer of 2024. That's the momentum we need to build on.”

Public design is available when the time comes

10th district. Andre Chabot, who sits on the Event Center committee, said he could not speak directly about the design.

“I hope people will get a chance to see it and everyone will be happy with the new offering,” he said.

It is moving forward effectively and efficiently. I think the best we can say is we hope it stays on time and on budget.”

Chabot admitted that the final design was mocked by many. He said he would like to see better communication on the project, including what features are available in the new Event Centre, as well as possible revisions to the design proposed by the CPC.

“Hopefully everything will be well communicated and resolved before the next debate on this issue,” he said.

Number. According to Sharpe, they will soon hit the ground running, given the rising costs beyond their control while balancing. Sharp said he will deliver the budget-based project promised to Calgarians. According to him, there are currently no amendments to the budget.

“We're delivering what we can with the budget that's been put forward, and all of that information is open now,” Kuhn said. – said Sharp.

As for public input on the design, Sharp said there's always an opportunity for people to comment on the project, especially through the development permit process. Lessons have been learned from the latest revelation, Sharpe said.

Is the design better received? Sharp went into the details.

“I would say I'm looking forward to seeing what Calgarians think. My personal opinion is that I like it more,” he said.