Saskatoon chamber optimistic over proposed $50M World Trade Center

The Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce is touting the potential benefits of a planned World Trade Center (WTC) in the downtown core.

Chamber executive director Kent Smith-Windsor told 650 CKOM the $50-million office tower could foster international trade through the worldwide WTC Association network.

“Prospective investors, newcomers would be seeking to establish a relationship,” he said.

According to the association’s website, there are currently 321 WTC-branded properties in 89 countries around the world.

Canwest Commercial and Land Corporation announced the Saskatoon project Friday.

While details such as the building’s size and exact location are still unknown, Smith-Windsor said the chamber is confident the brand will put Saskatoon on the “global stage.”

“It’s really more the economic function than the specific size of the building that’s important for Saskatoon,” he said.

“There is an attraction related to strengthening ties around the world, which based on what’s happening in the world is even more important.”

Former mayor Don Atchison, who is working on the project as a consultant through Canwest’s sister company North Prairie Developments, said there are several sites being considered for the office tower.

One potential site is the Haultain Building at the corner of 22nd Street and 4th Avenue, across from the Sturdy Stone Centre.

Canwest has owned the building for several years and previously announced a 31-storey condo project, which has been delayed.

Atchison suggested the building is a “second choice” for location, but is still in play.

Further plans for the project are expected to be released in the next four to six weeks.