The Yard District. (Submitted photo/ Gord Broda)

By Teena Monteleone

The Yard

Proposed entertainment district for P.A. inspired by Edmonton’s ICE District

Nov 23, 2021 | 1:32 PM

‘The Yard District’ could be Prince Albert’s potential brought to life.

That’s the hope of Signature Developments Corporation, the company that plans to build the mixed-use entertainment complex.

Inspired by Edmonton’s ICE District, which ranks as the largest mixed-use sports and entertainment district in Canada, ‘The Yard’ would offer entertainment, business, commercial, dining and other opportunities all anchored by the city’s new aquatic and arena recreation centre.

Signature Developments partner Rusty Clunie said they want ‘The Yard’ to be a place to gather where people work, stay and play.

“I think overall, the full build is about 88 acres. The initial phase one is about half that we’re trying to complete and attract developers and businesses to,” he said.

Russia-Ukraine War

In a first, President Biden gives green light for Ukraine's use of U.S.-supplied long-range missiles in Russia

1h ago

Podium finish

Carlton boys claim third at 5A provincials, first provincial medal in volleyball since 2014

2h ago

Raiders win 4-1, win 4 in a row

Mrsic dominance continues as Raiders route Oil Kings

5h ago

Clunie said they’ve had a lot of interest from potential clients and are hoping to attract national players to locate on their site. He said a deal on five acres with a local investor has ‘pretty much closed’ with plans to bring in some fast-food restaurants. Conversations have also taken place with hotels and other businesses.

“For residents and visitors alike, The Yard will truly provide an extraordinary experience unlike any other in Prince Albert,” said Gord Broda, President of Signature Developments, in a press release.

“But The Yard represents more than what it offers in terms of shopfronts and square footage. We see the vast potential just waiting to be realized in this city, and The Yard will unleash that energy like never before.”

The development is expected to create jobs and draw in additional tourism revenue. While the city is already constructing two hockey rinks and an indoor aquatics centre, Clunie said a WHL arena is also in the design phase with final approvals expected soon.

“The future looks very exciting,” Clunie said. “Thankfully we have that energy coming and I really believe P.A. is going to be a destination and with the OSB plant coming and forestry getting revived in city and area as well as potentially a new hospital I really think we’re poised to be growing and opening up to the world to become a destination spot for business and growth.”

Surface construction on The Yard is expected to begin in spring 2022 and anticipated to continue over the next couple of years.

—

panews@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @MonteleoneTeena