Members of the Lloydminster Blazers assist MLA Colleen Young (left), Mayor Gerald Aalbers (center), and Kent Miller, director of the Lloydminster Upgrader Complex in shoveling the first few scoops of dirt at the groundbreaking ceremony on Aug. 29. Jeannette Benoit-Leipert Meridian Source
Dignitaries gathered under the blazing sun Tuesday afternoon for the first of many important events to be hosted on that land.
The City of Lloydminster held a groundbreaking ceremony on Aug. 29 to celebrate the commencement of construction on the site of the Cenovus Energy Hub.
“Today marks a new chapter in our community’s growth, as we gather here at the ceremonial groundbreaking for the Cenovus Energy Hub Event District. We’re not just witnessing the birth of a physical space, we’re envisioning a vibrant hub where great moments will happen,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers during the ceremony.
“Imagine the joy of hosting local festivities that showcase our unique culture and talents. Picture the thrills of welcoming provincial and national events, where our City becomes a focal point for innovation and progress.”
Aalbers told the crowd that the groundbreaking ‘isn’t just about shovels and dirt’.
“It’s about laying a foundation for a brighter future. It’s about taking the first step toward a future where economic growth, community engagement, and great moments all converge … let’s look forward to the years ahead when the Cenovus Energy Hub event district will stand as a beacon of opportunity, innovation, and prosperity for our community.”
Lloydminster MLA Colleen Young also came out to take part in the ceremony. The Saskatchewan government allocated $16,665,000 to the project.
“Community facilities happen because many people and partners come together to share big ideas, to recognize community needs, community growth, and how they can work together to make things happen,” said Young.
“New investments in our communities throughout Saskatchewan are important for job growth, population growth, and growth in our economy. And in return, they support all of our community’s needs—like health, education, social services, seniors care and programs for our most vulnerable.”
Also in attendance, was Kent Miller, director of the Lloydminster Upgrader Complex. As the named sponsor, Cenovus is contributing $5 million dollars toward the project.
“It’s really exciting to be standing here where the Cenovus Energy Hub will be one day. I’ve worked for a combined company—Cenovus and Husky Energy for 17 years, and it’s just absolutely fantastic to see the ongoing commitment to the area,” said Miller.
“I’ve been a resident here in Lloydminster for almost two decades and I know first-hand the difference that a facility like this is going to make for the community, particularly for our youth. I’m excited to see it come to life.”
Construction of the $93.9-million event facility, funded by the Government of Canada, the Government of Saskatchewan and the City of Lloydminster, began in mid-2023. The facility is expected to be fully operational by winter 2025.
It will include a primary arena with seating for 2,500 people, expandable up to 4,500 with floor seats, a second full-size indoor ice surface with seating for 300-500, and a third outdoor ice surface directly adjacent to the building.
The overall plan for Lloydminster’s new Event District includes many other amenities including walking paths, slo-pitch diamonds, an outdoor pavilion, powered campsites, commercial retail units, and a hotel.
