Big plans, small details define site’s future vision

Sandra Masters has only been the Regina Exhibition Association Limited board chair since Jan. 1, but knows there are certain priorities the organization must work toward after the past few years of change on the Evraz Place grounds.

1. Some space for new president and CEO Tim Reid.

“Giving him the leeway and the headway to capitalize on all the excitement he is bringing. He is the most excited guy in the room when you’re with him. Giving him the (space) to think big because he does and it’s pretty fantastic to be around. It’s quite inspiring.”

2. The five- to 10-year vision for the grounds.

“For the site and collaborating with others off site as well, community organizations.” Since the opening of the Co-operators Centre, Evraz Place has seen the addition of Mosaic Stadium, upgrades in the Brandt Centre and the new International Trade Centre that replaced several of the grounds’ old barns. What physical changes could come next will be part of that plan (parking is also on the list).

3. Repair and maintenance.

“We need to maintain the property in a good and efficient manner.” While there are a few shiny new buildings and some older eyesores have been replaced, there are still buildings — including the Brandt Centre — that need love.

4. Bringing in more large- and small-scale events.

“It’s the small events like a kids soccer tournament ... to those (concerts) where you pack the place. To do some of those big events where you make big memories and you’re drawing from the whole province to the community-based stuff where you’re bringing kids on site.” She is not making promises, but notes her dream show would be Bruce Springsteen at Mosaic Stadium.

5. Embrace the brands.

“You’ve got the Pats, you’ve got the (Canadian Western Agribition), you’ve got the Riders, U of R Cougars. It just doesn’t get much better than that in terms of (options). And we want to help them grow and be successful, too.”