The Saskatchewan government is asking Ottawa to help fund three event centre projects in Saskatoon, Prince Albert and North Battleford. According to a provincial news release, Premier Scott Moe has written to Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Minister Gregor Robertson seeking funding through Ottawa’s Build Communities Strong Fund for Saskatoon’s Downtown Event and Entertainment District, the Prince Albert Convention and Cultural Event Centre and the Battlefords Arena and Event Centre. The provincial government said it’s prepared to cost-match federal contributions, up to a maximum of one-third of eligible project costs, should the projects receive funding approval. “These infrastructure projects reflect shared priorities between Saskatchewan and Canada, including economic growth and community resilience,” Moe said in a news release. “We encourage the federal government to work with Saskatchewan and these municipalities to bring these transformational investments to life.” The province said the developments would boost economic growth, expand housing and tourism opportunities and provide space for emergency response during natural disasters and other emergencies. It said provincial participation is not required under the program, but its endorsement reflects confidence the developments will support regional economic activity and community development. Download the CTV News app to get breaking news alerts sent to your device Saskatoon Mayor Cynthia Block said the city is looking forward to working with the provincial and federal governments on the “transformational project,” which the city estimated in 2024 would cost about $1.2 billion. “This investment reflects a shared understanding of what the Downtown Event and Entertainment District can mean for Saskatoon, a multi-generational city-building initiative that will strengthen our economy, support housing and downtown growth, attract major events and conventions, and make the most of existing infrastructure,” Block said. The city recently agreed to begin talks with Muskeg Lake Cree Nation to explore a potential partnership on the arena project. In Prince Albert, the city has already secured $15 million in federal funding for the proposed convention and cultural event centre, which is estimated to cost about $135 million. Mayor Bill Powalinsky said the province’s commitment reflects a shared belief in the potential of the city and the future of northern Saskatchewan. “This commitment moves us one step closer to creating a welcoming space that will serve residents, Indigenous partners, businesses, visitors, and communities across northern Saskatchewan for generations to come - a place we’re proud to call home,” Powalinsky said. In North Battleford, Mayor Kelli Hawtin said the proposed Battlefords Arena and Event Centre will support long-term social, recreational, economic and emergency preparedness needs. “Beyond its significant economic impact, this essential community infrastructure will support growth by attracting residents, encouraging housing development and investment, and will aid as a tool to recruit and retain healthcare professionals, educators, skilled tradespeople, businesses, and industry.” The North Battleford project is estimated to cost about $94 million.
