The Southeast Event Centre (SEC) in Steinbach is nearing completion, bringing excitement to the community and city officials alike. The new facility is set to replace the former Centennial Arena, which had served the community for over 50 years, and is a key part of the renewal of the T.G. Smith Recreation Centre site.
City Councillor Jac Siemens, who has seen Steinbach’s growth over the years, is particularly elated by the progress.
“What have we done?” Siemens laughs. “It is spectacular,” he said after a recent tour of the facility. “When people see the finished product, it's going to be outstanding, you know, and it's only $70 million, instead of ‘wow, that's a lot of money.’ It is a lot of money, but we've got a facility there that will last for the next 70 years, and it will be showcased here so well with so many different events.”
Siemens went on to express his excitement about the facility’s opening.
“I am so excited about that first event that's going to take place there, it'll be a Piston’s hockey game. I'm pretty sure of that. It's going to be exciting, and I can hardly wait."
The SEC is designed to meet the diverse needs of the community, with a main venue that can seat 2,400 spectators and flex up to 4,000 for larger events such as concerts, trade shows, and sports games. A 500-seat multi-use hall/gymnasium and a spacious atrium will open the facility to the public for other community events.
“It's going to be a place for everyone,” Siemens said, noting that the new SEC will support a variety of activities and user groups from across the region, from concerts to ice-related sports and conferences.
As the project nears its December 31, 2024, completion date, there is also a push to hire the necessary staff to run the venue. About 120 staff members are being hired to work at the SEC, ensuring it will be fully operational and ready for the community's needs.
“I think they're a little bit behind schedule,” Siemens commented about the construction aspect, but he is confident that the venue will be ready for its first major event.
Siemens, a Steinbach resident for the last 66 years, has witnessed firsthand how important this new facility will be for the city.
“I worked in the old facility. I worked in Parks and Recreation for 18 years for the town, and then the city of Steinbach,” he said. “And I know how much this was needed and how much it's going to be appreciated.”
Siemens eagerly anticipates the completion of the facility and enjoying various activities at the Southeast Event Centre.
“It's spectacular and I am so excited.”