Released on March 1, 2011
The lack of any federal funding means the proposed Multi-Purpose Entertainment Facility won't proceed further, according to the other partners - the Government of Saskatchewan, City of Regina and the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
"We've said all along that a project of this magnitude requires funding from each of the three levels of government as well as the private sector," Minister Ken Cheveldayoff said. "The Government of Saskatchewan is still committed to working with the other partners to find a solution to the deteriorating condition of Mosaic Stadium."
The partners originally submitted their request for funding to the Federal Government in June 2010, and after eight months had no conclusive response to the proposal. The delay in receiving a response means the potential cost of the project has increased, plus the option agreement on the land lapses on February 28. The partners have agreed that with no indication of a response from the federal government any time soon, it is time to move forward with alternatives.
"While I'm disappointed at the lack of commitment from the federal government, I am more determined than ever that together with our partners we will come up with a plausible solution," Regina Mayor Pat Fiacco said. "The re-development of 46 acres of inner city property is an incredible opportunity - one far too important not to thoroughly investigate."
The proposed project would have provided an opportunity for continuing the redevelopment and renewal of Downtown Regina as well as a new housing development in the inner city.
"The Saskatchewan Roughriders are very disappointed, but also support the decision," Saskatchewan Roughrider Board Chair Roger Brandvold said. "From our perspective, it's critical we move forward with a very focused partnership that is committed to improving our stadium for all of our stakeholders. Whether that's brand new or renewed is yet to be determined, but it's imperative we work to a conclusion quickly."
The Government of Saskatchewan, the City of Regina and the Saskatchewan Roughriders will meet in the near future to decide on the process and next steps forward.
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For more information, contact:
Rebecca Rogoschewsky
Executive Council
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0980
Email: rebecca.rogoschewsky@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-529-1601