Edmonton named NHL hub city: Premier Kenney
Premier Kenney issued the following statement on the NHL’s selection of Edmonton as a hub city:
“The Government of Alberta is thrilled that the NHL has officially selected Edmonton as one of its hub cities for the restart of the 2019-2020 NHL season, the 2020 NHL Playoffs and the Stanley Cup Finals.
“Edmonton has tremendous advantages that make it a prime choice, and Alberta has been enthusiastically promoting that message over the past few months.
“With a world-class facility in Rogers Place, the unique infrastructure of the Ice District, and strong guidelines from Alberta’s chief medical officer of health, there is no safer place for the NHL to have the playoffs than in Edmonton.
“This is a huge win for Alberta. The advantages to our local economy for hotels, restaurants and many other industries, including attracting future visitors to our province, will be substantial. In fact, it means upwards of 2,000 jobs here in Edmonton that will be created as a result, and $60 million of economic activity when we need it most. And, more importantly, we will be doing this safely.
“Every year, millions of travellers head to our province to experience its beauty, our diverse culture and our one-of-a-kind destinations – and when the time is right, they will be back.
“This is a unique opportunity to showcase the incredible sights and experiences of Alberta to the world and kick-start our economic recovery – all the while protecting the health of Albertans, players and personnel, and their families.
“Alberta has so much to offer – from our thriving restaurant and hospitality industry in the heart of downtown Edmonton around the Ice District, to the breathtaking views of the mountain vistas of Banff and Jasper. We look forward to showcasing all Alberta has to offer as we get ready to watch the puck drop.
“Hockey has always had a special place in the hearts of Albertans, and we are incredibly thrilled to bring the best game you can name back into the living rooms of homes across Canada.”
