The University of Lethbridge is set to construct a new multi-sport dome on its campus, marking the first such facility in southern Alberta. Scheduled to begin construction in early 2027 and open by August 2027, the dome aims to alleviate scheduling pressures on the university's existing gyms while providing a year-round training space for sports teams and community groups.
Facility Details
The 11,860-square-metre structure will be located north of the university's Community Sports Stadium. It will feature a turf field, two sports courts, and a multi-lane track. According to Neil Langevin, executive director of Athletics and Recreation Services, the current three gyms at the Co-op Centre for Sport and Wellness are operating well above capacity, unable to meet demand due to indoor practices for track, rugby, and soccer teams.
“We don’t have enough gym space to offer enough intramural programming and programming for students in general,” Langevin said, describing the scheduling pressure as “real and difficult.” The dome offers a cost-effective solution, providing a large sports facility at a fraction of the cost of a traditional building, which would have been four to five times more expensive.
Funding and Community Impact
The project is funded through an internal loan from the university's capital reserves, a $1.15-million contribution from the University of Lethbridge Students’ Union (ULSU), and a $200,000 grant from the City of Lethbridge. Langevin expects the loan to be paid off in about 15 years, after which the facility will generate revenue for the institution.
“Through this investment, we increase opportunities for our students, improve the health of our community, and create more student-focused spaces on our campus,” said ULSU president Alejandro Figueroa in a statement. The university is also negotiating agreements with additional community partners, reflecting broad interest in the facility.
Year-Round Training
The dome will give the university’s track, soccer, and rugby teams a “real good chance” to train year-round, Langevin noted. He described the development as a “pretty substantial moment for southern Alberta,” emphasizing its benefits for the entire community.
With cuts in post-secondary funding, the university opted for a dome over a traditional building to manage costs carefully. The facility will be the first sports dome in Lethbridge and the first south of Calgary in the province, addressing a long-standing need for indoor athletic space.
