Belmont Fieldhouse and Library
Belmont Fieldhouse and Library
We are building a community fieldhouse and public library at the Belmont Civic Site, located in the community of Belmont near the intersection of Creekside Blvd. S.W. and 210 Avenue S.W. The facility will include a library, multi-sport rectangular field and supporting amenities such as dressing rooms, gender neutral washrooms and a field viewing area. It will form part of a community hub that will include a future multi-amenity recreation facility, if future funding allows.
Background
According to the Statistics Canada, Calgary grew 6% in 2023 — an increase of approximately 96,000 — bringing the total population to 1,682,509. As the city continues to grow, it is in need of library space and indoor multi-use recreation spaces for year-round opportunities to learn, practice, play and compete.
In 2021, as part of the Council-approved Revised Capital Investment Strategy (C2021-0911), The City received funding approval for a range of recreation opportunities throughout the city including a multi-use fieldhouse in the Belmont community.
This project also supports the Library Services plan and budget 2023-2026 initiative to “increase quality of life for Calgarians by building four new library service locations by end of 2026”.
In 2022, funding to support a new library facility in Belmont was provided through the Calgary Public Library Investment Program.
This joint project in partnership with Calgary Public Library is only the beginning of the Belmont Civic Site. The site will provide access to recreation and social gathering spaces which will support cultural, fitness, leisure and sports activities contributing to Calgarians’ overall social well-being.
Design
The fieldhouse will be approximately 118,000 square feet and will include:
- a multi-sport artificial turf field
- field viewing areas
- an administration office
- dressing rooms
- gender neutral washrooms
The library will be approximately 10,000 square feet and will include:
- public meeting rooms
- open seating areas
- a children’s library
- collections shelving
- staff workspaces
Economic impact
Capital investment in this project will contribute $34.8 million to Calgary’s gross domestic product (GDP).
This project will generate 324 full-time equivalent jobs during project design and delivery.
Budget
The estimated cost for the fieldhouse and library is $71.1 million.
Timeline
- 2023 (Q4) – 2024 (Q4): Detailed design
- 2025 (Q1): Construction procurement
- 2025 (Q2): Construction start
- 2027 (Q1): Fieldhouse and library open for use
Timelines are variable and dependent on weather, ground conditions and other unforeseen circumstances such as supply chain delays.
Benefits
- Library and recreation infrastructure is vital for vibrant communities, promoting health and well-being and enhancing quality of life.
- These facilities serve as community hubs, offering spaces for people to gather, socialize, and build strong community bonds, fostering a sense of identity and pride.
- Well-designed recreation infrastructure ensures that people of all ages and abilities can engage in active and creative living, promoting inclusivity.
- Active and well-used public spaces can reduce crime and vandalism by increasing community engagement and vigilance.
- Recreation facilities attract visitors, create jobs, and boost the local economy through events and tourism.
- Based on expected visits, the Belmont Fieldhouse is projected to support $422,000 in annual healthcare cost-avoidance and quality-of-life improvements.
- The Calgary Public Library sees nearly seven million visits annually and has over 750,000 active members. With free memberships, the new library will offer endless learning opportunities and a place for people to access ideas, inspiration, and insight.
- This facility is expected to be a focal point of activity in the community, providing a wide range of programs and services to meet social, recreational, and cultural needs.