UAlberta Universiade Pavilion to undergo $27M in renovations

The University of Alberta’s Universiade Pavilion (known colloquially as “the Butterdome”) will undergo $27M in renovations funded by the Government of Alberta. The exterior protections of the 42-year-old building have begun to fail and require repairs, according to UAlberta Manager of Campus Architecture Kelly Hopkin. Hopkin told CTV News that the renovations will also modernize the look of the facility. “We’re going to do things to make it more transparent, so … it doesn’t feel like a 1980s fieldhouse, [but instead] more like a recreation facility and cultural gathering spot for the city,” said Hopkin. Renovations will begin in spring 2026.