Spruce Grove City Council has approved moving forward with the preliminary design of a new Civic Centre.

Following work on the proposed Arena Complex and extensive public engagement, Council made the decision to proceed with the preliminary design of the proposed concept during their April 26, 2021, Council meeting.

“The decision to move forward with the design of a Civic Centre in Spruce Grove is an exciting step for our community and our region, which will support a variety of needs and interests” says Mayor Stuart Houston. “This concept was developed after extensive research, discussions with stakeholders, and thoughtful conversations following resident feedback. I also want to share our entire City Council is thrilled about the value this type of facility will bring to our community.”

The proposed Civic Centre design would address a number of identified needs in the community, including ice surfaces and other arts and culture investments. The proposed facility includes:

• A spectator ice rink with seating capacity of approximately 1,700 seats
• A second community ice rink (both NHL sized)
• A community walking track/concourse
• Multi-purpose rooms
• An art gallery
• A black box performing arts theatre/flex space
• A Spruce Grove Public Library branch

“The Spruce Grove Public Library Board and staff are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the City of Spruce Grove to increase community library space with the addition of a second branch,” says Adam McArthur, Board Chair, Spruce Grove Public Library.

At this time, the final size, cost estimates, amenities, and location of this investment are still to be determined. Proceeding with the preliminary design also does not mean a decision has been made to move forward with construction of a Civic Centre. Any future decisions related to the Civic Centre’s construction will be informed by the preliminary design. This will provide Council with a detailed concept for the project that will inform the decision on moving forward.

The cost of the preliminary design work and required lands are already included within the City’s approved 2021 budgets. A significant portion of the construction cost is expected to be funded by the Province’s Municipal Sustainability Initiative and options to minimize the financial impact to the community will be explored.

More information will be shared with the community as it becomes available.