First Nations Propose New Domed Stadium For Riders

First Nations Propose New Domed Stadium For Riders

Thursday, March 04, 2010 at 14:30

 

 

A $1.2-billion stadium and hotel complex is being pitched by some First Nations in the province.

 

The plan would see a new domed stadium built in Regina for the Riders to play in, as well as the establishment of a Hard Rock Cafe, a hotel and a casino.

 

The design of the stadium has already been released on the website of famed First Nations architect Douglas Cardinal.

 

Beardy’s Okemasis First Nation Chief Rick Gamble is one of the people who is spearheading the idea.

 

He says the Seminole band in Florida has offered to pay for half the cost of the proposal, as well as give 10 Saskatchewan First Nations a letter of credit for the other $600 million.

 

Gamble says the plan is contingent on the province selling them Casino Regina and Casino Moose Jaw — which he notes is contingent on involving the Metis Nation – Saskatchewan.

 

Gamble says they have spoken to Regina mayor Pat Fiacco about the idea and received verbal support from some MPs in the province.

 

He says he knows the idea is ambitious, but he believes it can be done.

 

However, Gamble stresses the plan won’t work if the provincial government refuses to sell them the casinos.