New Mosaic Stadium officially opens in Regina

The new Mosaic Stadium officially opened in Regina on Friday, June 30, 2017. (CHRISTEEN JESSE/CTV REGINA)

The new home of the Saskatchewan Roughriders has officially opened its doors.

Mosaic Stadium is the best stadium in Canada, and one of the best in North America, Regina Mayor Michael Fougere said at the opening ceremony for the facility Friday.

“It will also serve as a venue for people to gather and celebrate our great community for generations to come,” Fougere said in a news release.

“This opportunity would not have been possible without the strong partnerships between the City, the Province and the Roughriders, and the recognition that this is a catalyst for the growth and transformation of our city.”

The stadium project is part of the city’s Regina Revitalization Initiative, which includes the planned Railyard Renewal Project and Taylor Field neighbourhood.

Officials from the City of Regina, the Saskatchewan government, and the Roughriders were on hand for the opening ceremony.

“Our government is proud to have been a part of this historic project,” said Premier Brad Wall.

“New Mosaic Stadium sets the standard for sports venues in Canada. From the comfortable seats to the spacious concourses to the concessions, everything about the stadium is first class. The new Mosaic is a worthy home for the Saskatchewan Roughriders and will serve as a tremendous setting for university and amateur sports and entertainment events. Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this project home.”

The $278-million stadium’s capacity of 33,000 is expandable to 40,000 for major events. It features a sunken lower bowl, individual seating, and a 360-degree main concourse.

The stadium also has several lounges, which can be used year-round, and is also home to the Riders’ business and football operations. In addition, Saskatchewan Sport occupies 10,000 square feet of office space for several provincial sport-governing bodies.

“We are honoured to officially call Mosaic Stadium home,” said Saskatchewan Roughriders board chair Wayne Morsky.

“This premier facility would not have been possible without the valued partnership and shared vision between the Roughriders, City of Regina and Province of Saskatchewan, as well as the continued support of Rider Nation. Together, we look forward to creating a lifetime of new memories.”