Reworking the Exhibition Lands Plan: New Proposal Supports Coliseum Reuse, Housing, and Long-Term Economic Growth

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

EDMONTON, AB — May 2026 — A renewed proposal advocating for the adaptive reuse of the Edmonton Coliseum and a reworked Exhibition Lands development strategy is gaining momentum as discussions continue around the future of one of Edmonton’s most iconic public structures.

Project advocates behind SaveTheColiseum.ca say evolving discussions with city leadership and stakeholders are reinforcing the need for a revised approach that prioritizes functionality, financial responsibility, historical preservation, and long-term community benefit.

Reworking the Exhibition Lands Strategy

Recent discussions surrounding development south of 118 Avenue have highlighted logistical and operational challenges associated with maintaining event functionality during major construction phases. According to comments made by representatives from Explore Edmonton and city leadership, hosting events while large-scale redevelopment is underway presents significant complications.

Supporters of the revised plan say this further validates the need for a more practical and flexible strategy centered around preserving and reutilizing the Edmonton Coliseum rather than demolishing it.

“Our plan is designed to work with the existing structure and surrounding lands in a way that minimizes disruption while maximizing long-term public value,” said Greg N. Reimer, CEO, President & Head of Business Development at The Goldfire Group.

Preserving Edmonton’s Living History

Advocates argue the Edmonton Coliseum remains one of the city’s most historically significant public venues, having hosted decades of major sporting events, concerts, and international entertainment.

“Many younger Edmontonians are unaware of the incredible history tied to this building and the role it played in shaping Edmonton as a destination city,” Reimer said. “That reinforces why preservation and adaptive reuse matter.”

Originally constructed in 1974 for approximately $74 million, proponents estimate replacing a comparable modern facility today could exceed $1.2 billion. By contrast, they argue rehabilitation and modernization costs could represent only a fraction of that amount while avoiding substantial demolition and remediation expenses.

The proposal highlights that demolition and environmental remediation costs could exceed $186 million, while rehabilitation and reuse would provide a year-round, weather-protected venue capable of serving multiple community and economic functions.

A Flexible Vision for the Future

The SaveTheColiseum.ca proposal outlines a fluid and evolving redevelopment concept that incorporates:

• Reuse of the Edmonton Coliseum as a modern multi-use venue

• Rapid, accessible, and affordable housing opportunities

• Hotel and hospitality development

• Mixed-use commercial spaces

• Community-oriented infrastructure and services

• Preservation of the building’s structural integrity and historical identity

Project organizers say the surrounding Exhibition Lands provide significant opportunities for smart, phased redevelopment without sacrificing one of Edmonton’s landmark facilities.

Comparing Proven Models

Supporters also point to successful examples such as Vancouver’s Pacific Coliseum, which continues operating decades after construction while supporting sporting events, concerts, and community programming.

“The Edmonton Coliseum still has the potential to generate substantial economic activity and public value,” Reimer said. “The most cost-effective solution is often the one that builds upon what already exists.”

Infrastructure Funding Opportunities

The proposal also references recent federal infrastructure funding announcements and suggests Edmonton is well-positioned to pursue major support for projects tied to housing, transportation, healthcare, education, and community development.

Advocates believe these opportunities could help support broader regional infrastructure priorities, including transit expansion, transportation improvements, and community services connected to Exhibition Lands redevelopment.

The Role of Nonprofits and Community Partnerships

The initiative further encourages collaboration with nonprofit organizations and community development groups to help preserve and repurpose publicly owned buildings facing demolition.

Project supporters note that nonprofit-led models can unlock additional funding pathways and community services while reducing pressure on municipal budgets.

Looking Ahead

Additional financial projections, restoration cost estimates, business development partnerships, and detailed infrastructure plans are expected to be released in upcoming announcements.

“We believe Edmonton has an opportunity to create something truly unique — a vibrant, safe, economically productive community built around one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks,” said Reimer. “The best is yet to come.”

Media Contact

Greg N Reimer
CEO, President & Head of Business Development
The Goldfire Group
📧 gregreimer@thegoldfiregroup.com
📞 (780) 457-0799