Reports to Council

Matt Kachel, the City’s Infrastructure Delivery Divisional Manager, provided Council with information on the Integrated Project Delivery model, the results from the validation phase of the arena multiplex project, and the final project scope and budget.

To ensure comprehensive and accurate project costing, staff adopted an Integrated Project Delivery framework for the arena multiplex project, prioritizing the assembly of a qualified team to achieve cost certainty, a well-defined scope, and high standards of quality and durability. The procurement process extended nearly 10 months, with each major builder and designer sourced individually. For the arena multiplex project, this included the architect, general contractor, structural engineer, structural steel trade, mechanical engineer, mechanical trade, electrical engineer, electrical trade, refrigeration engineer, refrigeration trade, steel stud/drywall trade, civil engineer, civil contractor, and geotechnical engineer. These 14 competitive procurement processes are all directly managed by the City.

The arena multiplex project validation phase began in January 2026 to determine how the desired scope of work could be delivered within an initial funding allocation of $140 million. The validated cost model includes three development scenarios, all of which include library space, as previously directed:

• the base program of three NHL-sized ice sheets
• the recommended program of four ice sheets – three NHL-sized and one mini rink
• the future state with five ice sheets – four NHL-sized and one mini rink

The project’s base program has been confirmed at $161.6 million and includes all spaces required to program and operate the facility. The project is designed to allow for future expansion, which could include:

• Mini Rink: $6.5 million: The mini rink offers a smaller-scale ice surface designed for skill development, learn-to-skate programs, and recreational play for all ages.
• Additional indoor ice sheet: $20.1 million: An additional NHL-sized indoor ice sheet would provide year-round use, reliable ice conditions, greater user comfort, and increased scheduling flexibility for programs and events.
• Outdoor ice sheet: $14.4 million: An outdoor NHL-sized ice sheet would be less expensive to construct and maintain than the indoor option, making it a cost-effective option for seasonal and recreational use. However, it would be weather-dependent, which could limit the operating season and affect ice quality during warmer winters.

During the Committee Reports portion of the meeting, Council authorized proceeding with the recommended program of four ice sheets—three NHL-sized rinks and one mini rink.

View the full report.
View the presentation within the Council meeting slide deck.
Contact for further information:
Matt Kachel | [email protected]

View the full Council Highlights for this meeting