Major renovations underway at Confederation Centre of the Arts

November 25, 2024 – A major renovation project that will transform the former library space at Confederation Centre of the Arts is now underway. Supported by the Governments of Canada and Prince Edward Island, the $65-million project will result in the founding of a new cultural leadership institute, which will position the Centre as a national leader in convening conversations on issues important to Canadians, in arts education, and in the development of new artistic work.

“It’s exciting to see construction begin on this transformative retrofit at Confederation Centre of the Arts,” says Sean Casey, Member of Parliament for Charlottetown, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities. “This project is more than just bricks and mortar—it’s about breaking down barriers to accessibility, fostering innovation, and solidifying the Centre’s role as a national leader in arts and culture.”

“This is a very exciting milestone!” says the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “I have no doubt that these investments will help make Confederation Centre of the Arts greener and more sustainable, so it can continue to be a place where our country’s history and culture are celebrated.”

The green retrofit of the building, and the addition of rooftop solar panels is expected to reduce the facility’s greenhouse gas emissions by 68.8 percent, a savings of 286 tonnes annually.

“Confederation Centre of the Arts plays a key role in the Island’s arts and culture landscape, and this project will strengthen the industry as a whole,” says the Honourable Dennis King, Premier of Prince Edward Island. “With expanded arts education programs and new training and development opportunities for professionals, local organizations will gain valuable capacity and skills to grow the sector.”

“This transformative project marks a significant milestone in the ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Ernie Hudson. “The investment in green technologies and renewable energy is not only a key step in reducing the environmental footprint, but it also ensures that the Centre is a vibrant and forward-thinking cultural hub for future generations. We are proud to be a funding partner in this important project.”

A central goal of the project is to strengthen the role of Confederation Centre of the Arts as a national leader facilitating conversations on issues important for Canada. Building on programs like the Symons Medal Presentation and Lecture, and the Charlottetown Forum, the Centre will provide more opportunities for Canadians to engage with one another across the country.

“This renovation and expansion project will help Canada connect on important issues through this new leadership institute,” says Centre CEO Steve Bellamy. “With increasing political polarization and a weakening social fabric, we are witnessing an inability for productive discourse in society. Now more than ever we need to be able to discuss important issues with those who have perspectives which are different from our own. We see Confederation Centre of the Arts as facilitating those conversations across Canada.”

The federal government is contributing $25 million towards this project through Infrastructure Canada’s Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program and between $2 to $5 million through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) – Innovative Communities Fund (ICF). The province of Prince Edward Island is contributing $20 million, and Confederation Centre of the Arts will be contributing $16.5 million through donations.

The project is expected to be completed in May 2026. For more information visit confederationcentre.com/projectinformation. 

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Media Contact:
Emily McMahon, Communications Manager, Confederation Centre of the Arts
[email protected] | 902-628-6135