[ZeDgE]

Originally Posted by ericmacm

I don't mind the look for the new arena. It looks average, but that doesn't necessarily have to be a bad thing. I'm sure it will look more cohesive once we get some additional images that put it into a better context, as well as a more refined design later down the line.

In regards to the debate about replacing or renovating the Saddledome, the biggest issue with it is the proximity to the Bow River, and consequently, the flooding that happened back in 2013. The Saddledome is in a vulnerable spot for flooding (it appears to be at a lower elevation in comparison to the new location), which will likely be more frequent in the future with climate change happening, so it just doesn't make sense as a long-term location in regard to risk of future flooding. The flood in 2013 was pretty major and would have further reduced the lifespan of the structure despite the repairs (it'll never be back at 100% unless a full gut of the affected area is undertaken). A full internal rebuild to modern state-of-the-art spec like Climate Pledge Arena would absolutely work, but the price tag would likely be double or even triple what a new arena would cost ($1.15B USD for Climate Pledge vs $608M CAD for Calgary Events Centre), which wouldn't be palatable for the public purse.

It unfortunately just makes more sense to start over and build a new arena. I know it's an iconic structure for Calgary, but it clearly won't work well for the long-term with the price tag of extensive repairs and renovations, as well as being more vulnerable to future flood events that would result in even more repairs.

Flooding is still a big risk on the new site. I think they were going to go with an inverted bowl design but due to the flood risk this is not happening now. Perhaps it wont sit so low into the ground like the saddledome does.