Crossfield residents may soon see improvements at the Pete Knight Memorial Arena, as Rocky View County council unanimously approved $50,000 in recreational funding for renovations, Sept. 20.
The money will be used for phase one renovations, which will include re-insulating the arena, installing metal cladding on the walls and installing a metal roof.
“This is an arena that is in bad need of renovations,” said Greg Boehlke, area councillor. “It is a good project.”
The total cost of the project is $330,000, with $30,000 pledged by the Town of Crossfield, $125,000 from an Alberta Community Facility Enhancement Program grant, $119,000 from the Arena’s fundraising account and $5,700 worth of community-donated labour and services.
Crossfield Mayor Nathan Anderson is thrilled at the County’s generosity.
“They are great partners,” said Anderson. “I know their budgets are tight, but they take the time to talk about us and our community and to provide us with the money needed to do the project.”
According to County staff the Rocky View staff report, the renovations are necessary as the roof and exterior walls leak, the brick walls are deteriorating and there is little insulation. The result is a very cold interior and large amounts of condensation, which drips from the roof onto the ice surface, creating a health and safety risk that needs immediate attention.
The structure of the arena is sound, but because of the lack of insulation, there is no climate control within the building. It makes it really hard to keep a quality ice surface, said Anderson.
Phase one renovations will commence in the next few weeks, with an estimated construction time of three to four weeks, according to Anderson.
The renovations will not affect use of the facility. The Town plans to complete future interior renovations and install state-of-the-art ice making equipment.
“We want to bring the arena up to a modern level,” said Anderson, adding that once all the renovations are complete, the facility will likely serve the community for another 35 years.
The arena is used for figure skating, hockey, ringette, minor baseball, soccer, lacrosse and a farmers’ market. It is also used for many community activities.
“It is always buzzing, it is busy all the time,” said Anderson.
Boehlke agreed.
“The Pete Knight Memorial Arena nurtures the health and wellness of Crossfield and area residents by providing many year-round recreational opportunities,” he said. “The arena is also a gathering place for area residents and fosters community spirit. We are pleased to support this project.”
Reeve Rolly Ashdown said the safety of local residents is paramount.
“The arena has started to deteriorate and the renovations will help to ensure the health and safety of our residents, which is of topmost importance for Rocky View County.”
