Glenmore Twin Arena being built in southwest Calgary

The City of Calgary says ground has been broken on a multi-million-dollar facility meant to replace the Stu Peppard Arena.

Work on a new recreation facility in southwest Calgary is now underway, the city says.

The Glenmore Twin Arena, which is being built at the Glenmore Athletic Park, will have two ice rinks, a multipurpose room and classroom, spectator seating, a concourse and expanded parking.

The Stu Peppard Arena will be replaced by the new building, but it will remain open while construction is ongoing.

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“Investment in public recreation infrastructure is important for promoting the local economy, fostering cultural vitality and encouraging healthy, active lifestyles,” the city says on the project’s website.

“The new Glenmore Twin Arena will increase the availability of ice surfaces in west Calgary, providing more space to practice and compete.”

Mayor Jyoti Gondek said the new arena is “a critical investment” for the city.

“As our city continues to grow, we must prioritize recreational infrastructure to meet the needs of all Calgarians. This new arena will provide the opportunities for all ages and abilities to stay active, connected and engaged in the communities they call home,” she said in a release.

A temporary parking lot, accessible via 19 Street S.W., will be open in the northeast corner of the Glenmore Aquatic Centre’s parking area.

The project has a price tag of $85 million, with most of the funding coming from Calgary’s revised capital investment strategy as well as support from Hockey Calgary and other city funding sources.

Officials with Hockey Calgary said they are glad work is moving ahead on the project.

“Growth of hockey in the Calgary area continues to be strong in both the male and female categories, and we’re confident the addition of this facility will help us grow the great game of hockey and other ice sports in Calgary,” said Kevin Kolbeka, Hockey Calgary’s executive director.

Construction is expected to be complete by 2027.