http://calsun.canoe.ca/News/Alberta/2008/01/16/pf-4775641.html
January 16, 2008
Stampede steps closer to Main Street
By SHAWN LOGAN, SUN MEDIA

The Calgary Stampede is a step closer to having high-end restaurants, world-class boutiques and sizzling entertainment as part of a street development, the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth says.

The Stampede yesterday announced an agreement with Denver-based Alberta Development Partners, which specializes in creating mixed-use retail and entertainment zones on a grand scale.

Developing the area along Olympic Way between 12 Ave. and 14 Ave. S.E. is a major plank in the Stampede's $600-million expansion plan that is aimed at making the storied park a year-round destination.

Doug Armitage, Stampede vice-president of business development, said the vision is coming together for a collection of shops, restaurants and other venues aimed at attracting people to the grounds beyond the annual 10-day bash.

"We don't want to do anything short-sighted and quick," he said.

"We don't want to build a strip mall -- we want to build a destination or a gathering place."

Armitage said much of 2008 will be spent determining what kind of tenants will be included in the plan, as well as the mix of services.

Plans could be in place by the end of 2008 and the project is slated to be completed by 2010-2011.