New arena project to proceed as “City-owned, regionally supported”

With the conclusion of the Regional Arena & Events Centre Steering Committee work, North Battleford City Council voted to proceed with pursuing the project as a municipally owned entity during Monday night’s Council meeting. 

The move follows the Steering Committee’s finding that, while regional stakeholders across the Battlefords expressed strong support for a new facility through the process, generally there was not broad interest in a shared ownership and governance model. With the City facing a decision about the future of the existing Access Communications Centre (ACC), Council authorized City Administration to proceed with planning for a City-owned arena and events centre.

The new arena and events centre, with an estimated cost of $94 million, would require external funding sources due to the project size and scope. This would include funding support from federal and provincial governments and a community-driven fundraising initiative. In addition, communities throughout the Battlefords region have submitted letters to indicate their support for this project to assist the City in its pursuit of funding opportunities.

The City of North Battleford will apply to the Government of Canada for federal infrastructure funding while continuing to advocate for a matching investment from the Province. Earlier this year, City Council approved a municipal contribution of $15 million toward the project while the Town of Battleford, RM of Battle River, and the RM of North Battleford have each passed resolutions to provide capital contributions toward the project. Combined with support from a local fundraising campaign, these commitments will form the required local contribution. The REC Group is working with DCG Philanthropic to secure corporate and individual donations in support of the new arena and events centre. Businesses and interested donors are encouraged to contact DCG to learn more about contribution opportunities and associated benefits.

A municipally owned parcel next to the InnovationPlex Recreation & Cultural Centre has been identified as the preferred site for a new arena and events centre. The proposed twin-pad facility would span more than 121,000 square feet and provide an inclusive, accessible space for sport, culture, emergency preparedness, and community connection. The City-owned, regionally supported venue is also expected to drive economic growth, creating more than 200 jobs during construction and generating an estimated $58 million in local spending. 

Additional information about the arena and events centre project can be found at www.cityofnb.ca.

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For more information:
Candace Toma, Public & Intergovernmental Relations Coordinator
306-441-0713 | publicrelations@cityofnb.ca