Incoming CMFS Chair, Jason Zaran, reiterated that the Society still stands firmly behind the City’s plans for a multisport fieldhouse at Foothills Athletics park, but he said, “we will definitely evaluate the Flames plans when we see them.”
There are still many unanswered questions regarding the Flames plans – cost? who pays? will the City provide the land? what is the timeline?(A full discussion of these questions can be found in the April 4 Herald. (http://calgaryherald.com/news/local-news/hall-monitor-answering-seven-questions-about-the-flames-arena-pitch.) But the proposal does offer hope that the long-held dream (dating all the way back to the ’60s) of a multisport fieldhouse in Calgary may finally become a reality. And that will be very good, not only for athletes, but for all of Calgary. In the words of the editorial writer on April 3:
It’s to be hoped the Flames’ new home includes features that make it a must-see meeting place, rather than an unimaginative grouping of sports venues. The ownership group, which includes some of Calgary’s most generous philanthropists, has hinted at a bold vision, so there’s every reason to believe it will live up to expectations when details are formally released. The project would be a tremendous source of pride and economic development for all of southern Alberta.
You can see the editorial in its entirety here: http://calgaryherald.com/opinion/editorials/editorial-flames-bold-vision