Civic Common Redevelopment Strategy

Project History

The Lethbridge Civic Common is an urban precinct. It includes City Hall, the Yates Theatre, the Civic Ice Centre, the Civic Field, the Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (LSCO) complex and the Old Courthouse. The Civic Common precinct is bounded by Stafford Drive South, 4 Avenue South, 11 Street South and 6 Avenue South. The aging Civic Ice Centre, the planned demolition of the YMCA building on Stafford Drive South in 2020 and the planned relocation of the RCMP building on Stafford Drive South saw the City create the Civic Common Master Plan (CCMP) in 2018.

The City of Lethbridge worked with consultants to develop the CCMP. Local stakeholders, including business owners, recreation groups, government agencies, the public and Council, worked to shape the vision for the Civic Common. The CCMP includes background research, site analysis, community engagement, design vision and phasing strategy. View the open house presentation for the CCMP to find a project timeline and historical background information on the area.

Community Vision and Goals

The CCMP established a roadmap to guide future decisions in fulfilling the community's vision for redevelopment in this area. Extensive community engagement in 2018 highlighted the desire for a versatile space that goes beyond regular civic buildings.

Feedback identified the importance of creating a Civic Common area that is practical, inclusive and inviting. The community also prioritized spaces for recreation, culture, safety and green spaces that are accessible to all and vibrant throughout the year.

With a vision set, it is now critical to complete a redevelopment strategy to place the site and the surrounding area in a position to support and encourage redevelopment. This includes the potential for new buildings (such as a Performing Arts Centre), an enhanced public realm, and vibrant and welcoming complimentary uses.

This phase of work involves translating the vision into a physical layout that organizes public spaces, buildings and infrastructure. It includes plans for new or expanded civic buildings, green spaces and necessary upgrades to streets and utilities. This phase also includes more public engagement.

Project Update

The Civic Common Redevelopment Strategy builds on the community’s input from 2018. Now in the research and planning phase, this long-term strategy will require City Council approval to seek funding for phases of design and construction.

The Civic Common Redevelopment Strategy will consider adding new buildings, upgrading existing ones and enhancing public spaces like streets, sidewalks and parks. The goal is to improve the overall livability, value and functionality of the area for both residents and visitors. The strategy will also explore options to include a Performing Arts Centre into the Civic Common that aligns with the City’s vision. A phasing and implementation plan will prioritize which projects could begin first, and how to fund them.

Upcoming Engagement Opportunities

Community voices will continue to shape the future of the Civic Common. Engagement opportunities in Fall 2024 will provide updates on the project’s progress and opportunities for more public feedback.

Those interested in keeping up with the project can also click the "subscribe" button on this page to receive project updates.