Flames announce $890-million plan to build new arena, sports complex

The Calgary Flames are enlisting the community's help to build a multi-purpose hockey arena, football stadium, and entertainment complex west of the city's downtown core, Flames CEO Ken King announced Tuesday.

Here is the first look at how the project would eventually appear:

(Courtesy: CalgaryNEXT)

Flames ownership will make a $200-million contribution to the proposal, with the remaining $690 million coming from a variety of taxpayer streams in an effort to replace the Saddledome.

There will be a $240-million community revitalization levy, $250-million ticket tax, and an additional $200 million from the city to fund a 1.4-million-square-foot football stadium and recreation complex for the CFL's Calgary Stampeders.

King said the football stadium would also convert to a FIFA-quality soccer pitch, but added the city is not yet prepared to host MLS games. A retractable roof is not planned for the facility, because that would cost an additional $150 milion.

The proposed land area has access to an LRT station, making it easily accessible for the public.