It’s been confirmed: the roof of the Flames’ arena is falling apart

In January 2022, it was confirmed that the Calgary Flames would continue playing in the Scotiabank Saddledome indefinitely as the agreement the team had with the city of Calgary to build a new $634 million arena was terminated. The Flames have a lease with the city to operate the building until 2033.

But now some scary news have emerged about the state of the Saddledome and I’m not sure the Flames and their fanbase should be in there.

“Documents obtained by CBC News through Alberta’s Freedom of Information legislation show that pieces of concrete have fallen loose from the roof’s ring beam while other crumbling pieces have been removed to prevent them from falling.

Engineering firm Entuitive recommended that there be inspections each spring and fall to monitor any deteriorating conditions of the concrete which have been caused by annual freeze-thaw cycles.”

The roof is literally falling apart…

This is a picture, submitted by Entuitive, in the engineering firm’s report shows a piece of concrete which was removed from the Saddledome’s ring beam.

As stated by CBC, “the City of Calgary refused requests for an interview on the subject.” But this was said about the issues and the fact that it reportedly isn’t a structural concern.

“However, a senior official who is familiar with the reports and the Saddledome told CBC News that there are no concerns about the stability of the roof or for public safety.”

The Flames have been playing at the Scotiabank Saddledome since 1983. However, back in July 2019, city counsel approved the project for the new arena, with then-Mayor Naheed Nenshi adamant that the deal provided “a great balance of social and financial return” for the city.

This will the Flames’ 39th season in the Saddledome, the second-oldest in the NHL behind the New York Rangers’ Madison Square Garden.