March 31, 2014 (Edmonton, AB) – The City of Edmonton is pleased to announce its intent to bid for 2022 Commonwealth Games. The City submitted a Letter of Intent, signed by the Province of Alberta and Commonwealth Games Canada, to the Commonwealth Games Federation March 31, 2014.

“Our city’s successful history as a great event host city started with the 1978 Commonwealth Games. Hosting the games in 2022 will demonstrate to the world how much Edmonton has evolved and reflect the Commonwealth Games Federation’s confidence in our city,” says Edmonton Mayor Don Iveson.

As part of the next step in advancing the bid the City will continue its discussions with the Province of Alberta and other stakeholders including national and provincial sporting organizations.

“With more than 70 participating countries and 4000 athletes participating, hosting the Commonwealth Games is a valuable opportunity to showcase Alberta on the international stage. The games will build on the long term legacy of athletic excellence in our province. We look forward to working with the City of Edmonton in bringing the Games back to the province,” Premier David Hancock.

The Commonwealth Games Federation is expected to announce candidate cities who are interested in hosting the 2022 Commonwealth Games in the near future. Completed bids are due to the Federation by March 2015 with the Games being awarded in September 2015.

The hosting of international events is a key strategy for Edmonton as it helps diversify our economy, advance the city’s reputation around the world, and improves the quality of life for Edmontonians.

The city is currently hosting the Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance’s “Sport Events Congress”, held April 1-3 at the Shaw Conference Centre.

“Hosting the 2022 Commonwealth Games will be transformative for our city and the economic impact of new infrastructure, jobs and a boost in tourism is an incredible opportunity for our region,” says Edmonton Economic Development President and CEO Brad Ferguson.

“Canada is the birthplace of the Commonwealth Games, with the British Empire Games held in Hamilton in 1930. We welcome the opportunity to bring the Commonwealth’s best summer athletes back to Canada in 2022,” says Commonwealth Games Canada President Dr. Andrew Pipe. “Congratulations to Edmonton for this exciting initiative; we look forward to working with the city on the bid’s next steps.”