By Charles Lefebvre

Report into Arena’s future delayed due to environmental contamination testing

Sep 26, 2017 | 4:36 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — It’s going to be another couple of months before the final fate of the Medicine Hat Arena is known.

The city has been assessing the building since the doors closed in July, with the goal of having a final report for development by September.

However, during the assessment, environmental contamination was discovered at the site.

“(The contamination) is most likely linked to the previous operation of the facility,” said Grant MacKay, manager of land and business support with the city.

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MacKay says it was too early to determine what the contamination is, but says there is no human risk, noting it is below the surface. He adds the city has ordered more testing to determine how far it extends.

“We feel that’s very important information to have available for any prospective purchaser who might be coming into the city to look at that as a development opportunity,” he said.

Last year, city council voted to close The Arena, citing the costs of keeping the building operating. The Arena was built in 1970 and was the home of the Medicine Hat Tigers until the Canalta Centre opened in 2015.

The Southeast Athletic Club Tigers and Medicine Hat Minor Hockey Association used the facility in the winter until the closure, and ball hockey was also played out of the building in the summer leading up to its closure.

In addition to environment assessment, MacKay says the interview includes discussions with nearby property owners for long-term parking needs, including the YMCA, Medicine Hat Police and the Medicine Hat Curling Club. There is also assessment being done on the impact the new berms on the site.

MacKay says finding a solution for the building remains a priority for the city.

“It was council’s direction to close the facility and to engage the development community in disposition options and alternatives,” he said. “Very much to execute on that strategy, and to bring closure to that previously operating facility, it’s very important to carry this through.”

MacKay says the city will provide the information for developers who wish to express interest in developing the site, and will complete a final report for council about what will be done to the Arena.

MacKay hopes the final report will be in council’s hand by December.