March 26, 2014
Provincial Government Sets Aside $3 Million to Improve Energy Efficiency of Investors Group Field, Allow for Year-round Use
– – –Upgrades Will Ensure First-class Experience for Winter Events: Premier Selinger
The provincial government has set aside funding to improve energy efficiency and convert Investors Group Field into a true four-season facility, Premier Greg Selinger announced today at event with CFL commissioner Mark Cohon and Winnipeg Blue Bombers CEO Wade Miller to officially announce Winnipeg will host the 2015 Grey Cup.
“Investors Group Field is among the finest stadiums in the country and it’s an important asset for all Manitobans,” said Premier Selinger. “These upgrades will allow us to take advantage of opportunities that will boost our growing economy and allow us to expand the use of our beautiful stadium, for decades to come.”
“It's important that we enhance the as-built design of the stadium to more comprehensively realize its potential,” said Miller. “This provincial investment will contribute to lowering operating costs, but it will also allow us to realize a complete sport, entertainment and hospitality business by expanding the range of events the facility can hold. This will help to ensure the long-term financial stability of the Winnipeg Football Club.”
The province will work with Manitoba Hydro to identify new energy-efficiency measures that will maximize return on the provincial investment. Miller noted the upgrades would mean significant savings for the Winnipeg Football Club beginning in year one.
Tourism, Culture, Heritage, Sport and Consumer Protection Minister Ron Lemieux said that Investors Group Field has kick-started a stadium building boom across Canada that will see new facilities opening in Hamilton, Ottawa and Regina in the coming years.
“It’s an exciting time for the CFL and I’m confident there will never be another stadium built of the quality and price we achieved with Investors Group Field,” the minister said.
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