Renderings for the future of Rexall Place are giving the public a glimpse of what the building could be used for in the future.
Floor plans obtained by CTV News show a two-level facility with at least six sheets of ice.
“We anticipate this would be probably the premier venue in at least Western Canada, if not in Canada,” said City Councillor Tony Caterina.
When Rexall was built, the roof system was designed to hold significant weight, which Caterina said lends itself to the two-level idea.
“So here you have the ability to make it multi-level rather than just one level with seating.”
The facility also has potential for a supporting medical centre and retail space.
“I think the proposals that they have are worth looking at,” said Mayor Don Iveson.
Edmonton city council hasn’t formally seen the proposal from Northlands yet.
Iveson said it could take months for councillors to work through some of the alternatives for Rexall Place.
“The proposal to turn it into a tournament centre actually could help support a hotel, which could help support the convention centre as a business and tourism driver in the city,” said Iveson.
Iveson cautioned that the city likely wouldn’t be able to afford to pay for the transformation on its own.
“I think it’s going to take a lot of funders and supporters to make it happen in this environment. Expecting the city to carry the freight alone may be a stretch.”
Northlands sits on land owned by the city and requires consent to make major changes to its structure.
The Edmonton Oilers are moving out of Rexall Place and into the new downtown arena in time for the 2016-2017 NHL season.
Northlands is expected to release more details this week.
With files from CTV's Amanda Anderson.
