(This is a lengthy post look at the economics and politics surrounding the Flames arena proposal. Fair warning.)
After years of whispers and innuendo, the Calgary Flames finally announced their proposed arena plans last week. The CalgaryNext project is, unfortunately, drawn from the same playbook as the Edmonton Ice District and dozens of other North American arena projects over the last decade: stick the public with most of the cost while keeping most of the profits.
Of course, that reality isn't made explicit in any of the presentations or PR materials you will see as this debate ramps up.