The rendering in this Proposal does not tell all but it does hint at a few things partnered with the descriptions:
* The project budget is high enough to attract world class architects leading to a potential outstanding design
* The possibility of having a collapsible/removable roof has appeared in all three variations for the outdoor space -- this helps in terms of Edmonton's weather unpredictability
* The indoor space is going to hit the sweet spot for performance art including musical groups -- this is key to the success of this venue -- some of the very best talent in the world is up-and-coming and draws crowds of under 3,000 and there is a trend, too, for A-listed main-stream acts to take on smaller venues for more intimate performances -- both of these suggest that the effort will be made to make this an exceptional event space.
* It appears that Daryl Katz has sold the land (or will sell the land) back to the City as part of this endeavor leaving Mr. Katz with lots of development options going forward (this guy is one shrewd businessman who purposefully remains apolitical)
* Keeping things tight in terms of adjacent development to the fan park, I project that the first mixed use residential developments will occur on land just north of 105th Avenue. What might that look like? I expect the Mac Lofts to be developed as part of a double structure development across the street (westward) with a compatible mid-rise (7-storey) structure facing the Mac Lofts and with a structural upgrade to Mac Lofts to allow 3 more stories added there perhaps with an over-the-street, more-than-a-pedway connecting the two buildings and high-end purpose-built ground floor retail/hospitality (partially and selectively removing sections of the first floor of Mac Lofts to create an interesting street-facing space). The adjoining tower (west along 105 Ave.) would be a 27+ storey building. This first development would set the tone for the remaining lands.
