Full funding for the new International Trade Centre at Evraz Place has been secured through contributions from Canadian Western Agribition and the Regina Hotel Association.
Agribition announced a $1 million investment and RHA will invest $3 million in the $37-million project. The federal, provincial and municipal governments have already announced they would provide $33 million.
The work will begin as soon as this year’s show concludes and the 150,000-square-foot building should be open in 2017.
Evraz Place CEO Mark Allan said the building will include three large halls that can be used simultaneously or all together for major events such as Agribition. Site work around the facility will provide more parking and more lighting, he said.
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“The exhibitors … have been very patient with our organization, the community, as they continue to bring a world class show to the community each and every year,” he said, acknowledging the livestock exhibitors and others who have put up with leaky roofs and inadequate electrical services.
Agribition president Stewart Stone said the new facility ensures future stability for the show and exhibitors. The 45th show begins Nov. 23 and he said it has a reputation to uphold.
“During that time we have grown to be the best beef show on the continent and the largest livestock show in Canada,” he said.
New in the trade show this year is a food pavilion with a wine garden, Stone added.
Thirteen buildings will be demolished to make way for the new ITC. Regina mayor Michael Fougere said they were clearly beyond their lifespan and newer multipurpose space will be a draw for the city.
“Evraz Place is really a centerpiece of economic development,” he said.
The RHA money is coming from its Destination Marketing Program. President Cari Lemieux said the association this year alone is sponsoring more than 60 events and conferences. It sees value in spending money to bring in events and fill hotel rooms, she said.
By 2017, Evraz Place will have quite a different look. The new $278-million football stadium under construction on the east side of the grounds is scheduled for completion in the summer of 2016.
Karen.briere@producer.com
