The project is demolishing structures on the Edmonton Spectrum property (formerly known as the Northlands Park Racetrack & Casino).
Coliseum Demolition Project
The Edmonton Spectrum Demolition Project is separate from the Coliseum Demolition Project. The Coliseum Demolition Project will demolish the Coliseum site (formerly known as the Northlands Coliseum, Rexall Place, Skyreach Centre and Edmonton Coliseum).
Project Update - Fall 2025
On-site work has begun. Hazardous materials abatement is being completed for multiple structures across the property. Demolition work is anticipated to begin in December 2025.
About the Project
After 119 years as a horse racing facility, the Northlands Park Racetrack & Casino closed in 2019. After the City of Edmonton returned the vacant property to its property portfolio, it served various purposes before preparations began for its future development as part of the Edmonton Exhibition Lands development.
In preparation for the next phase of this development, the City of Edmonton is demolishing structures on the Edmonton Spectrum property, located at 7410 Borden Park Road NW. Following demolition, these areas will be regraded (a process that reshapes the land to ensure proper drainage and stability) so that they may be prepared for future development.
The project involves hazardous materials abatement, site remediation and regrading, demolishing constructed structures and decommissioning relevant site utilities.
The project is demolishing the:
- Edmonton Spectrum building (formerly known as the Northlands Spectrum)
- Chiller building
- Winter barns
- Veterinary building
- Winner’s Circle
- Racetrack in-field tunnel
- Satellite dishes east of the chiller building
- 79 Street Barns
- Control office building (also known as the jockey dormitory building)
The demolition of these structures is being completed using heavy equipment, including excavators, cranes and dump trucks.
Impacts of the Demolition
The demolition does not pose a health or safety risk as all hazards are being managed. Steps are being taken to reduce dust, as well as minimize noise and vibrations. The project is not anticipated to impact events or parking at the Edmonton EXPO Centre.
After the Demolition Project
The land will be put up for sale as part of the Edmonton Exhibition Lands development. The planning, design and construction associated with any future development are not part of the demolition project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Comprehensive land use and development planning had to be completed before the demolition and development could move forward. This planning was guided by the vision outlined in the Edmonton Exhibition Lands Planning Framework (10.03 MB) and Implementation Strategy.
In 2023, the Edmonton Spectrum building was deemed unsuitable for occupancy.
No, the demolition work is not anticipated to impact events at Borden Park.
No, the demolition work will not impact the pool as it is anticipated to begin after the pool has closed for the 2025 outdoor pool season, and is expected to be completed before the pool reopens for the 2026 season.
The Edmonton Exhibition Lands is developing more than 80 hectares (200 acres) of centrally located land that will provide opportunities for Edmontonians to live, work and play in new ways, only minutes from downtown and easily accessible by multiple modes of transportation.
