Moose Arena opening delayed but might not be as long as some think

By COLLIN GALLANT on September 13, 2022.

cgallant@medicinehatnews.com@CollinGallant

The opening of the Moose Arena will be delayed this fall after a new concrete slab was poured this summer, but it may not be as long as some hockey and skating groups have been told.

Last month, administrators overseeing the construction told the infrastructure committee the project was moving toward an early September conclusion.

But recreation managers said Monday delays in receiving boards and glass mean it will not be available for the start of hockey season, but likely not as long as early 2023, as some groups have been told.

“We’ll work with facilities management (office) about a realistic date for opening,” said James Will, director of parks and recreation. “Our staff have been playing it safe by saying January, but my hope is it will be much before that. But groups have to plan.”

Administrators were anticipating taking over the facility this month ahead of the hockey season, Will said without the glass or boards, the ice cannot be installed.

“We are working with groups for other options, and we know that that means other communities.”

Mock emergency

Emergency planners and Canadian Pacific Rail are planning to stage a mock emergency exercise at the marshalling yard in Medicine Hat on Oct. 5.

The event is meant to provide first responders an opportunity to train and run through procedures in response to a simulated derailment and chemical spill.

There is no risk to the public, acting public services director James Will told a council committee on Monday, but may notice or become concerned by the drill

“The public can expect to see some lanes closed entering the CP switch yard and more activities in the area,” he said noting that discussions will take place soon with business operators in the vicinity about the scope of the exercise.

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