From Railyards to Hockey Games

The History of Edmonton’s Ice District

Abstract

The impeccable revival of the land in which the current Ice District stands follows a narrative of overcoming challenges in the pursuit of long-term vibrancy and influential transformation. Examining the land-use history of the past century shows the undeniable impact of railways and suburbanization on Edmonton's downtown to the contemporary initiation of redevelopment plans set by the city and vital actors under the Katz Group. Through detailing the collaboration of the public and private sectors, necessary zoning changes, and key financial negotiations, the added complexity behind these large-scale projects is evident. This paper also acknowledges the challenges that arise from issuing dramatic transformations, such as the social issues of gentrification, displacement, and in the economic realm of funding. The concluding statements reflect on this urban development's success in influencing future development strategies while remembering there are necessary efforts we must engage in to consider a balance between addressing social issues alongside inspiring growth in Edmonton's downtown spheres.