The Calgary Stampede has received $25 million from the Alberta government for a new agricultural building expected to open in 2014.
The money is part of a $60 million project to build a western events centre and renovate existing older buildings on the site.
The Stampede has received $25 million from the federal government through the Building Canada Plan and will fund another $10 million through corporate and philanthropic partnerships.
“This is a significant investment that is good for business and also for tourism development in Calgary,” premier Ed Stelmach said July 14.
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Added agriculture minister Jack Hayden: “The Calgary Stampede is the largest agricultural society in Alberta and exhibitions are a major economic driver for our province.”
The Agrium Western Event Centre will feature a competition arena with seating for more than 2,400 as well as meeting, education, event and exhibition space.
It is expected to attract about 60 agricultural events per year and will be located east of the existing agriculture building.
“It will be multi-use and will host things, not just agricultural but the petroleum show and what not,” said Stampede president Mike Casey.
Part of the old agriculture building will be removed while the barns and stabling area will be renovated. The big top tent will be removed. Work begins as soon as this year’s Stampede ends.
The announcement is linked to a larger $400 million expansion that includes better street access, retail development, Elbow River improvements and a youth campus.
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