Battleford Arena getting facelift

Prior to the then-updated designs, according to the report, the last major renovation in 2000 included “a new concrete slab, dasher boards, modifications to the bleachers, and a 4,000 square foot expansion to accommodate a Zamboni room, club room, mechanical room, and storage space.”

Then seven years ago, the town installed a new ice plant but since then, there hasn’t been any follow-up.

“We have been putting a little bit of money away each year – not this year – but previous years to get it done with the goal of somewhere in the future we would get at this,” Schechtel said.

“So, really, this is a plan to how we can start the process, the planning process of what – if those conceptual designs are still relevant and what the community wants,” he added, noting a parge part would be working with Associated Engineering.

According to the report, the proposal is to modernize the arena such as adding accessibility features, expand spaces for teams, events and other users, Upgrades to provide year-round usability and energy efficiency.

The timelines include public consultations over the next two months, summary and a presentation to the council in mid-summer. The tender process is expected to begin in December and the estimated time of completion is July 2028.

“Financially, the 2025 capital budget does not include this project, but as I said, there was previously $1,120,000 in reserve funds previously allocated,” said Schechtel, adding up to $36,500 will be used this year for pre-planning.

The report said that last year, costs were projected roughly $2.1 million but excluded designs, permits, fees and other contingencies. However, due to market changes, the department expects that number to increase.

“To fund it, the finance, parks and recreation departments will collaborate to explore funding options that could include one of or a combination of municipal borrowing, grant applications, sponsorships and partnerships, adjustments to facility fees,” he said.

“Council approval will be required for the final funding plan, that will be integrated into future capital budgets.”

Following the presentation at council, Coun. Kevin Russell said he has seen multiple minor hockey age groups have been on the ice at the same time.

“Getting to that, hosting a tournament, the old concept of having four dressing rooms just doesn’t work anymore,” he said.

“It’s a great struggle; I’ve seen it time and time again.”

Russell said he liked the idea, noting they are working through the memorandum of understanding with the City of North Battleford, and other regional partners to build a new recreation facility – of which, the town received and approved a letter of request for resolution from Mayor Kelli Hawtin to support the city as it applies for the Targeted Sector Support Grant.

The town, Russell explained, also needed to look at its own buildings and facilities.

Councillor Mark Coleman agreed.

“The timeline looks good…it’s not a 2032 deadline like our regional partners but to see the work get started right away and work through it,” he said.

They hope to begin construction next year.

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julia.lovettsquires@pattisonmedia.com

On BlueSky: juleslovett.bsky.social

by Julia Lovett-Squires

Battleford Arena getting facelift

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