Electric Zambonis purchased

By Medicine Hat News on September 26, 2020.

Two Medicine Hat arenas will be cleaned by electric-powered ice-resurfacing machines this winter thanks in part to a climate initiative grant from the province.

The Municipal Climate Change Action Centre has provided $100,000 toward the purchase of two “Zambonis” that will operate at the Canalta Centre and Hockey Hounds Arena.

“We expect to see significant cost savings by switching to (electric),” said fleet manager Justin Brunelle.

Fuel cost savings are estimated at 80 per cent over gas or diesel units, and maintenance costs should be 30 per cent less, states a release.

The city has previously purchased electric models of forklifts and small utility vehicles as gas- or propane-powered units are replaced.

City recreation officials said the change improves indoor air quality as well as reduces general emissions.

Trail work Monday

Contractors will be onsite to begin repairs on the Northwest Riverside Trail on Monday morning.

Work to improve drainage will last until late October, the city announced Friday. It will require the trail to be off-limits to pedestrians between the trailhead at the 500 block of First Street NW, and the connection to Third Street NW.

Facilities to close

Effective Monday, washrooms and kitchens at a number of city parks will be closed for the winter months. Kin Coulee (Kinette corner and bandshell), Saamis Rotary Park, Kiwanis Central Park, Ross Glen Park, Echodale (concession building), Lions Park, Optimist Park and the Saratoga Dog Park (water tap).

Washrooms and portable toilets will remain open at the Kin Coulee toboggan hill, Echo Dale’s Ajax building and boat hut, Saratoga Dog Park, the Southridge Community Park and four high-board outdoor skating rinks.

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