The SaddleDome Gears Up for a New Jumbotron Amid Plans for a New Arena

PUBLICATION

Sam Jones
July 16, 2024 (10:46)

SHARE THIS STORY

In a surprising move announced by Ed Robertson of Calgary Sports and Entertainment, the iconic SaddleDome, a staple of Calgary's sports culture, is set to feature a brand-new jumbotron next season.

This decision has sparked a wave of curiosity and speculation among fans and analysts alike. Why invest in a significant upgrade when plans for a completely new venue are underway?

The context of this decision is rooted in a larger, more ambitious urban redevelopment strategy. On April 25th, 2023, the announcement of the Calgary Event Centre project marked a major milestone in the city's efforts to rejuvenate its downtown core.

The new center, with a hefty price tag of $1.22 billion, is not just a sports arena but a multifaceted complex intended to include an indoor rink and public plazas, significantly enhancing the urban landscape. Financially, the city of Calgary has committed to a $537 million investment, with additional contributions of $356 million and $300 million from the Flames owners and the province, respectively.

If the SaddleDome is to be replaced, why upgrade it? The answer might lie in the interim needs of the team and its fans. Despite the future looking bright with the new Event Centre, which is anticipated to open its doors for the 2027-2028 NHL season, there remains a gap of several seasons during which the team continues to compete in the existing facility.

The SaddleDome, one of the NHL's oldest arenas, has been showing its age, compounded by the recent departures of key players either through free agency or trade requests, creating a sense of instability within the team. Upgrading the jumbotron could be a strategic move to boost fan engagement and improve the spectator experience in the short term, as suggested by sports tech analyst Ziad Fazel:

This blend of short-term enhancements with long-term visionary planning reflects a dynamic approach by the Calgary Flames' management. It's a balance between maintaining current fan engagement while laying the groundwork for future successes both on and off the ice. As the city and the team look forward, the new jumbotron may serve as a symbol of commitment to fans and players alike, ensuring the Flames remain a competitive and entertaining team in the years leading up to their transition to the new Event Centre.