Released on November 6, 2009
The feasibility study on building a domed all-weather entertainment facility in Regina has reached its mid-way point following completion of extensive stakeholder consultations.
"The prospect of building a domed facility in Saskatchewan is complex and challenging," Enterprise Minister and Minister responsible for the study Ken Cheveldayoff said. "A multi-purpose facility that can host football, soccer, trade shows, conventions, concerts, cultural and community activities would provide economic and cultural benefits to both Regina and Saskatchewan."
In July the Federal and Provincial Governments, the City of Regina and the Saskatchewan Roughriders announced a $1 million joint investment to fund a feasibility study into an all-season multipurpose entertainment facility to be located in downtown Regina. The study is funded 40 per cent through the Canada-Saskatchewan Western Economic Partnership Agreement (WEPA) via Western Economic Diversification Canada; 40 per cent from the Province of Saskatchewan; and 10 per cent each from the City of Regina and Saskatchewan Roughriders Football Club.
The study is expected to be complete by the end of January 2010.
Two consultants were contracted to complete the majority of work on the study - Stadium Consultants International (SCI) to work on site planning and preliminary design options, and Global Spectrum to assist with the operational and facility business plan aspects of the project, including the scope of opportunities for the facility as a multi-purpose venue.
PCL, a construction company originating in Saskatchewan, but now operating nationally, is working with SCI on the issues of construction and costing.
SCI has provided the Advisory Committee with draft floor plans for a 33,000 seat facility that can be expanded to 45,000-50,000 seats. The draft plans also include multiple roof options including a fully retractable roof concept.
Crown Investments Corporation (CIC), the province's representative on the Advisory Committee, met with a wide variety of stakeholders ranging from user groups and community groups right through to property owners and private developers. A summary of these consultations will be included in the final report.
"Co-operation among the partners has been outstanding," Cheveldayoff said. "The study is on time, sharing information and working together to meet timelines couldn't be better."
Also, as part of the study, CIC is working with CP Rail to examine the details of moving from their current site on Dewdney Avenue.
CIC will be running Requests for Expression of Interest ads Nov. 7 in major Western Canada newspapers to gauge developer interest level if the stadium project is approved.
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For more information, contact:
Mike Woods
Crown Investments Corporation
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5889
Email: mwoods@cicorp.sk.ca
Cell: 306-539-9588