BMO Centre to become Calgary’s largest venue after $500m expansion

BMO Centre is now undergoing its most substantial renovation ever in Calgary as part of its expansion project allowing the city to become home to a large convention centre.

The renovation is coming at a cost of $500 million, and is expected to transform Stampede Park.

The centre has served as Calgary’s premier venue for consumer and trade shows, special events, meetings and conferences since 1982.

Kate Thompson, president and CEO of Calgary Municipal Land Association says this project will build a new facility that Calgary hasn’t seen yet. She adds this project will create jobs in Calgary.

“This is a huge deal for the city of Calgary, not only on the micro-effect where we have approximately over a 100 different construction workers on site today. When we are at peak of construction we’re going to have 400 people on site,” Thompson said.

Open Gallery 5 items

Jim Laurandeau, vice president at the Calgary Stampede says the new facility is expected to create more than 1,800 jobs, and increase Canada’s GDP by $260 million.

Laurandeau adds this project is a huge catalyst for the entertainment industry, it will create spaces for people from outside Calgary to attend events in the city.

“We have a junior ball room that is over 20,000 sq., and a grand ball room that is about 50,000 sq.,” he said.

Thompson says Calgarians who come to Stampede will be safe moving in and around the area as their team is following world class safety procedures.

READ MORE:

• Calgary Stampede 2022 a potential lifesaver for local businesses

• Calgary bars, restaurants can serve alcohol early during Stampede

• Calgary Stampede 2022: All the bands and artists confirmed to perform

Laurandeau says this project will create an amazing addition to Calgary and the Calgary Stampede.

“This puts the Calgary Stampede and in fact Calgary into a totally different league of hosting conventions,” Laurandeau said. “Right now the Calgary Stampede is predominantly in the consumer show business, and what this does is open up Calgary in the league, for example, of Vancouver and Toronto of the large, large convention centers.”

The expansion is set to be finished by June 2024.