Close-up photo of the sign on the CN Centre in Prince George
CN Centre

City asking electors to approve over $15 million for CN Centre work

Apr 22, 2026 | 11:32 AM

PRINCE GEORGE — The City of Prince George is set to launch an alternate approval process (AAP) on April 28 for five proposed projects, including a major renewal of the CN Centre’s building envelope, with an estimated cost of $15.86 million.

Marking its 30th anniversary in 2025, the CN Centre is entering a critical phase of its lifecycle that requires significant infrastructure upgrades. City officials say the building envelope — which includes exterior walls and structural components — has reached the point where replacement is necessary, a standard stage for civic facilities of its age.

The planned work will focus on repairing exterior walls to prevent water infiltration, improving energy efficiency, and extending the building’s lifespan. Once completed, the upgrades are expected to keep the facility safe, operational, and structurally sound for at least another 50 years.

“This work isn’t due to a lack of maintenance,” said Andy Beesley, the City’s director of civic facilities and events. “The arena undergoes regular annual maintenance and upgrades. This comes down to the age of the building. Much like the Aquatic Centre project, it is time to reinvest in this important community facility that welcomes hundreds of thousands of people from across northern B.C. every year.”

The total project cost includes approximately $4.15 million for demolition, office relocation, construction support, third-party testing, project management, design consulting, permits, and insurance. Construction-related work is estimated at $11.67 million.

Major construction elements include:

  • Exterior envelope replacement — covering walls, roofing, windows, doors, drainage systems, and related components — estimated at $10.3 million
  • Structural repairs: $800,000
  • Fire wall reinforcement at the Kin Atrium: $100,000
  • Electrical upgrades, including new emergency and exterior lighting: $300,000
  • Signage and landscaping improvements: $170,000

If approved through the AAP, construction is expected to take place during the summers of 2027 and 2028. Scheduling during these months is intended to avoid conflicts with the Prince George Cougars hockey season and to reduce heating-related costs.

City officials are seeking public approval this spring to keep the project on schedule and within budget. Delaying the AAP — or opting instead for a referendum during the municipal election in October — could increase costs, as the current $15.86 million estimate is based on 2026 pricing.

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Email: Adam.Berls@pattisonmedia.com