Round Table #7: Save The Coliseum – Conversation with Anne Stevenson & Gregory Reimer

Date: Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM (MDT)

A productive Google Meet was held between Councillor Anne Stevenson and Gregory Reimer, with support from Samira Torabi. The focus of this round table was on infill development, future urban planning, and the ongoing debate surrounding the Edmonton Coliseum.

Infill and Community Consultation

Gregory expressed appreciation for the dialogue around infill, emphasizing that his concerns had been previously shared via email and text with Councillor Jennifer Rice. Encouragingly, some of these recommendations appear to be making an impact. There is now a stronger emphasis on consulting residents—a welcome shift in tone and process.

Coliseum Restoration: A Viable Alternative

A central theme of the meeting was the future of the Coliseum. Gregory committed to sending additional follow-up materials detailing plans, evidence, and visionary proposals around restoration over demolition.

The economic case is clear:

• Cost of Restoration: Estimated between $15–30 million

• Cost of Demolition: Exceeds $100 million

The restoration pathway is not only more affordable—it is also more sustainable and beneficial for the city long-term.

Provincial Funding Clarity

During the discussion, Anne clarified that the $35 million previously believed to be earmarked solely for demolition might, in fact, be redirected. Gregory has requested further transparency regarding how this money might otherwise be used.

A proposed strategy is to reallocate these funds toward restoration efforts, leveraging support from the provincial government to avoid wasteful demolition and instead reinvest in a renewed facility that serves multiple community, commercial, and cultural purposes.

As more documents and renderings are shared in the coming weeks, there’s renewed hope that the case to save the Coliseum will continue to gain momentum.

Stay tuned for updates on Round Table #8.

Stay informed. Stay involved. SaveTheColiseum!

—
Greg N Reimer
CEO, President & Head of Business Development
The Goldfire Group