Last week’s article discussed an overview of Calgary’s newly proposed mega-sports arena, CalgaryNEXT. If the proposal is accepted, the new arena will replace the McMahon Stadium as well as the Saddledome. The potential project is estimated to cost $890 million (the majority of which coming from taxpayers) and therefore has received mixed reviews from Calgary residents.
During a press conference with Sports and Entertainment CEO, Ken King and some political figures, the Detroit Events Center was referenced as a prime example of how projects like CalgaryNEXT can stimulate the economy, create jobs and revitalize neglected areas of town.
Since construction of the Detroit Events Center has already begun, I was able to quantify the impact the arena has had on the Detroit so far. Please see the table comparison of the two projects:
|
Arena |
CalgaryNEXT | Detroit Events Center |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $890 million | $690 million public $200 million private |
| Funding Source | $690 million | $285 million public $365 million private |
| Impact | To Be Determined | 9300 jobs created |
The similarity of the projects is uncanny and during economic times like these, it’s difficult to look past projects that bode job creation like CalgaryNEXT does. Subject matter experts are estimating that the arena will take three years to build and will (potentially) secure approximately 8,000 construction jobs in Calgary and that’s exciting!
In the meantime, if you’re looking for short or long term employment in the construction sector, call Matrix Labour Leasing today at 403.201.9520 or email us at info@matrixlabourleasing.com.
In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we work on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut'ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Region 3), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.
