Construction of the arena multiplex is one step closer to becoming a reality following City Council's approval of the project's validated scope and budget on September 1, 2026. The decision marks a major milestone for Build Kamloops and confirms the project's readiness to move into construction.
This transformative project represents a significant investment in our community’s future and will bring together recreation, culture, and learning in one vibrant destination.
"Council's approval of the validated project scope and budget reflects our confidence in both the project and the collaborative work that has brought us to this point," said Councillor Kelly Hall, Chair of the Build Kamloops Council Select Committee. "The Arena Multiplex will strengthen Kamloops' reputation as Canada's Tournament Capital while creating more opportunities for residents of all ages and abilities to participate in ice sports and community activities."
Designed as an inclusive, ice-first facility, the Arena Multiplex will feature four ice sheets and a welcoming public gathering space. Features include:
- four new ice sheets: three NHL-sized rinks and one mini rink
- spectator seating for approximately 1,200 people in the main arena, with more moderate seating for other ice sheets
- modern change rooms and sport amenities
- space for a Thompson-Nicola Regional Library location
- approximately 5,000 sq. ft. fitness facility
- concession space
- space for complementary uses, such as equipment rentals, skate sharpening, and other recreational services
- multi-purpose rooms
- ample parking, including improved parking for Kenna Cartwright Nature Park users
The project is designed to accommodate potential future expansion, including a fifth ice sheet that could be constructed indoors or outdoors. Should opportunities arise, this future sheet could be coordinated with other Build Kamloops initiatives. Once the arena multiplex is operational, Memorial Arena could be decommissioned, creating an opportunity to reclaim and restore heritage materials for incorporation into a future multiplex expansion and to support the eventual development of a curling and racquet sports complex.
The arena multiplex is an ice-first facility designed to meet the needs of multiple ice sports, allowing more capacity for more than 100 local clubs and improving our event-hosting capabilities. Features such as an elevator and ramp to both levels, accessible seating, and elevated viewing spaces will ensure everyone can participate and enjoy.
The project validation process, completed through the City's Integrated Project Delivery model, confirmed the project's scope, schedule, risks, and budget. The approved $168.1 million budget reflects the maximum anticipated project cost to build four ice sheets and includes contingency measures and cost-management strategies to address potential construction risks while providing flexibility should those risks not materialize.
Funding sources include previously approved borrowing, reserves, existing funds and operating budgets, and a community capital campaign supported by the BC Interior Community Foundation, with opportunities to pursue provincial and federal grant funding to further offset costs. For a full breakdown of the project funding strategy, visit LetsTalk.Kamloops.ca/BuildKamloops.
"This is a disciplined and transparent approach to delivering a transformative community asset. It’s the same model we are using with the Kamloops Centre for the Arts," said Hall. "The validation process has provided confidence in the project's budget and delivery strategy while ensuring accountability and value throughout construction."
Early site preparation and construction activities are expected to begin this fall, with most of the earthworks and site movement planned for spring 2027 as conditions allow. Construction will continue in phases, with the facility expected to open in 2030.
As a cornerstone project of Build Kamloops, the Arena Multiplex will create new opportunities for residents to play, connect, gather, and grow while supporting the community's long-term recreational and economic development goals.
For more information and updates, visit LetsTalk.Kamloops.ca/ArenaMultiplex.
