A rendering of Shaw’s plans for its new headquarters in Calgary.
Shaw Communications Inc. unveiled plans on Wednesday for a new corporate headquarters in downtown Calgary roughly seven months after an electrical fire that originated in its building threw the city into chaos.
The cable company said its project will include "a complete renovation and restoration" of the Shaw Court building that was damaged in the electrical fire last July. Additionally, its plans include naming rights and expanded office space in a nearby office tower that is slated to open in 2016.
"The development supports the urbanization of downtown Calgary and reflects Shaw's position as a corporate and community leader," said chief executive officer Brad Shaw in a release.
"With up to 2,000 employees, Shaw's corporate headquarters will form a new anchor of development in Calgary's downtown, while setting a new benchmark for innovation in workplace and office design."
Last July's electrical fire created havoc across Calgary after it knocked out radio stations and created operational problems for city services including hospitals.
In January, Shaw disclosed that it received $5-million from its insurance company to help repair the damage. Moreover, the company said it was facing additional costs of $6-million for ongoing restoration.
The renovated headquarters is expected to reopen in the spring of 2014. It will house the TV operations of Global Calgary and will feature amenities including rooftop terraces and a fitness centre for staff.
Shaw also plans to occupy 12 floors in the 3 Eau Claire development, which includes two towers for both residential and business use. Construction will begin this summer and wrap up by 2016.
Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi said in the release, Shaw's new development project "will be an important part of the downtown core and Calgary's economy."
Rita Trichur