The Enmax Centre in Lethbridge is facing the decision of what to do with its aging arena. Three options are being considered: maintaining the current arena, modifying it for more seating and amenities, or building a whole new complex. General manager Kim Gallucci believes that transitioning to option two and eventually moving towards option three would benefit both patrons and clients, as well as generate more revenue at a smaller capital cost. The Enmax Centre has been a staple in Lethbridge since 1974, hosting numerous events over the years. Despite previous upgrades, Gallucci emphasizes the importance of planning for the future of the arena.
The council has accepted a report on the Enmax Centre, emphasizing that they are not committing to spending $150 million at this point. Councilor Belinda Crowson views this as the initial step in a lengthy process of planning for the operating and capital budgets. The third option for the arena includes an Olympic-sized ice surface, a new 7,000-seat hockey arena for the Lethbridge Hurricanes, and potentially a secondary sports team to share the space. The new complex could also attract more major events, increasing the number of events hosted annually from 85 to 129. However, with these improvements comes the likelihood of increased ticket prices compared to the current cost of WHL tickets at around $14.
While one company has proposed the idea of a new complex, it is important to note that this is just the beginning of the discussion. City council will need to consider all aspects of the project, including budget constraints and public interests, before reaching a decision. Crowson highlights the fact that the companies involved in the proposal only see a limited scope of the project, whereas the council will approach it from a comprehensive standpoint to ensure the best outcome for the community. The projected cost to build the new venue is estimated to be between $100 million to $150 million, indicating a significant investment would be required for any future developments at the Enmax Centre.
Overall, the future of the Enmax Centre in Lethbridge remains uncertain as discussions continue regarding the best course of action for the aging arena. The options of maintaining the current facility, upgrading it for more amenities, or constructing a new complex all come with their own set of challenges and opportunities. While there is potential for increased revenue and the ability to attract larger events with a new complex, there are also concerns about the impact on ticket prices and the overall cost of such a project. The decision-making process will involve careful consideration of all factors involved, with the ultimate goal of providing a venue that meets the needs and interests of the community.
