Dear Z. Delaney,
I happened to come across your article on Yahoo News while searching for more supporting information regarding our ongoing effort at SaveTheColiseum.ca. We are eager to connect with the individuals you interviewed, as our initiative continues to evolve — utilizing all six levels of the Coliseum building and fully developing the surrounding lands.
Surprisingly, many still remain unaware that an alternative redevelopment plan has been in progress for nearly two years.
Unfortunately, there has also been a significant amount of misinformation circulating, largely driven by Tim Cartmell, who is currently running for mayor, and Ashley Salvador, the ward councillor. Both have done little to consult with residents on the true cost of demolition — and equally, have offered no viable path toward reclamation or reuse of the building.
As usual, the public and nearby businesses have been left in the dark. According to multiple sources, the demolition cost has now ballooned to over $118 million, with property taxes increasing by approximately 5% per year to justify these expenses. What’s rarely mentioned is that a non-profit-led restoration and reuse of the building could be completed for far less — in the range of $15 to $30 million, depending on code and safety requirements.
The best way to clear up these falsehoods is by contacting the City directly through 311. I personally drove by the site last week after hearing that demolition work had begun. However, the only activity taking place was bridge and sidewalk maintenance along 118 Avenue — nothing on the Coliseum itself. In fact, I had a pleasant conversation with Tariq, the Traffic Inspector overseeing the job, who confirmed that no building work is currently underway.
There is also growing suspicion — as suggested by Councillor Anne Stevenson, who is running for re-election as an independent — that funds from the demolition budget may have been reallocated to other, more urgent city projects. While she has not specified which projects received these funds, this opens the door for optimism. If the province were to reallocate the existing $37.5 million, a portion could be directed toward restoring the Coliseum, with the remainder supporting affordable housing downtown.
This approach could make the Edmonton Coliseum the new Event Centre, ultimately saving Edmontonians and all levels of government billions of dollars in new construction costs.
We still have hope that saving the Coliseum — transforming it into a living historical, cultural, and arts hub, and the heart of a new, safe, and vibrant community — will attract global investment. Rebuilding the Coliseum from scratch today would cost upwards of $1.2 billion. By comparison, restoring it for $15–30 million represents an incredibly worthwhile and forward-looking investment.
Funding options for this redevelopment include a wide range of features, benefits, and partnerships, many of which are outlined in the attached information.
Thank you for your time and attention.
Please review the attached details — and do with them what you will.
Sincerely,
🔗 Community Project: https://savethecoliseum.ca