The governments of Canada and Alberta recently announced funding to renew the electrical system in Arts Commons, a multi-venue arts centre located in downtown Calgary.

The governments of Canada and Alberta are each contributing up to $400,000 to the renewal of the 560,665 square foot complex through the New Building Canada Fund. The City of Calgary is investing $1,818,000 towards the project, while the Arts Commons is providing the remaining $259,859 of the project costs.

The renewal project includes upgrading the existing electrical infrastructure, including the main electrical switch and all its primary distribution systems, which are currently operating past their expected lifecycles. Once finished, the centre will have a constant, reliable source of electricity to support its many events and performances for future years.

“On behalf of Arts Commons’ 600,000 annual visitors, we are most grateful to all three levels of government that have invested in one of our most critical lifecycle priorities,” said Johann F. Zietsman, president and CEO of Arts Commons, in a press release. “Only with the ongoing support of all three levels of government will this aging facility continue to be able to meet the needs of our community while aligning with the City of Calgary’s and Alberta’s strategic objectives to foster and promote a culturally vibrant and healthy community.”

“Investing in cultural facilities is important, not only for supporting the arts, but for ensuring communities have reliable access to vibrant, dynamic spaces where they can showcase local talent,” added The Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities. “These key improvements to the Arts Commons will help preserve Calgary’s art scene and ensure visitors and tourists can enjoy this artistic hub for years to come.”