CHAT News File Photo

By Chris Brown

Work expected done by Jan. 25

FLC taking advantage of closure for work on pool and arena

Jan 15, 2021 | 10:31 AM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – The city’s recreation department is finding a silver lining to the province-wide restrictions in place.

Annual maintenance at the aquatic park and arena at Family Leisure Centre will take place over the next 10 days while the facility is closed due to enhanced public health measures.

The Kinsmen Aquatic Park is normally closed for a spell each summer for maintenance work.

“We normally close the pool for a few weeks every August in order to accommodate any required work and necessary upgrades,” said Jeff Hoglund, recreation manager for the City of Medicine Hat. “With the current restrictions extended by two weeks, we were able to take the opportunity to complete these projects now, creating little to no impact on the community.”

Work there includes mechanical maintenance, replacing tiles, valves and pipes, as well as painting and grout work throughout the pool and pool deck, says the city.

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In the Cenovus Arena, work on three compressors that was scheduled for April will be done this month.

Staff will start to rebuild the ice on Jan. 18, and it’s expected they’ll be finished by Jan. 25. The work in the pool is expected to be finished the same day.

The city says the fieldhouse, gymnasium and the South Country Co-op Fitness Floor will not be touched.

“We’re excited to welcome back our members and the public once the restrictions are lifted,” said Hoglund.

On Thursday, the province eased some of the restrictions put in place on Dec. 8. Those restrictions included the closure of indoor recreation facilities, which remains in effect.

Heald-Riverside Rink Relocation

The city is also continuing work on the relocation of the Heald-Riverside Rink this winter.

A light fixture on the northeast side of the rink is in need of repair, work that is set for this spring.

Parks and Recreation staff continue working to maintain ice on the rink surface, and remind residents outdoor rinks are weather dependent and may close if ice conditions deteriorate or if maintenance is required.

For more information on outdoor rinks and ice conditions, visit the City website.