Construction is almost set to start on twin ice pads in Abram’s Land.
Earlier today, the ceremonial groundbreaking ceremony for the first phase of the Northside Rec Centre was held.
Regional Recreation Corporation Chair Michael Cachia says the process it’s been so far makes this even sweeter.
“It’s come after a long time of engagement, trying to get it as right as we possibly can. It’s really heartening to be able to say we’re starting construction, and as a matter of fact on Monday, we’re expecting to actually start construction. So we’re really excited about it,” he said.
He also says council’s decision to fast track the twin ice pads fit with that engagement.
“So certainly the message that we need more was in line, and everyone needs it faster. So, it just made an adjustment in this being potentially a phased project as opposed to being one full project being done all at the same time,” he said.
Mayor Melissa Blake says getting work in this year was a key to opening the doors on time.
“The real importance is being able to do some work in the fall before the ground freezes. And so the groundbreaking heralds the beginning of this change that’s about to come. So now that we’ve gone through the ceremony process, you’ll see real shovels in the ground doing real work for us,” she said.
Council approved the final designs and business plan at a meeting in July, but had given the green light on the twin ice pads during budget talks in December.
