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Originally Posted by rayne008
Totally agree - Although it's been mentioned many times that it's privately owned land and that the Flames want to be far away from the Stampede board - I just do get how this wouldn't be the ideal location.
That would also allow that stampede trail entertainment district to go ahead.
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Being off Stampede lands would suffice for CSEC. No need to be "far away" as well. Not sure exactly what you mean by your comments on Stampede Trail. Developing the Railtown lands would not preclude Stampede Trail development though, and would actually enable and enhance it.
The Remington Railtown lands in east Beltline would also likely require some environmental cleanup and remediation, although the severity, ownership history and logistics would make it a lot easier.
I believe it to be the best location due to current and future transportation and cultural realities and opportunities.
The upcoming Green Line LRT will have a station right there, directly connecting far north central and far southeast Calgary and points in between. All other areas currently served by LRT would be easily-enough connected via a short walk to City Hall Station (no more than from the current Saddledome to Stampede Station); or a via a transfer from the Green Line. The future High Speed Rail station will also be directly connected. Land has been purchased by the province for a station on the south side of the CPR tracks east of 4th Street SE.
A previous concept for the Remington Railtown lands included a pedestrian bridge over the CPR tracks at roughly 6th Street SE. Riverwalk will be closeby as well, connecting through the existing 7th Street SE underpass and going all along the Elbow River. This is in addition to the new 4th Street SE underpass connection.
The stadium/arena on these lands would likely spur the purchase and relocation of the Transit Centre to the east, opening up this prime riverfront land for development of quality residential condos. Other nearby lots east of MacLeod Trail would also be redeveloped as condos.
As mentioned, it would enable and enhance Stampede's planned Stampede Trail commercial development, which would involve connecting 4th Street SE through the grounds, hooking up to an extended 17th Avenue SE across the existing LRT tracks. With multiple connections across the CPR tracks to the north, the Railtown lands would be easily accessible to and from the National Music Centre, Central Library, East Village and the eastern Central Business District.
Existing conditions and future opportunities, while not insignificant, do not measure up with West Village in terms of scale nor ease.