Work continues at the Fort William Gardens to give it an internal facelift.
General Manager of Community Services Kelly Robertson says in a pre-pandemic year the facility would be open in the middle of September, but with the upgrades opening day is set for October 8th.
“Part of the reason for that is our regular work that we have to do get the ice up and running, but also the improvements are so we can host the Scotties in the new year,” added Robertson.
Curling Canada moved the 2021 Canadian Women’s Curling Championship to the hub city of Calgary back in December 2020. As part of that announcement the organization confirmed Thunder Bay would get the 2022 event from January 28th until February 6th.
When it comes to the upgrades…
- New rigging system to suspend sound systems
- Lights and television cameras
- Electrical upgrades
- Heating and washroom improvements
- Scoreboard with video screens
- Ice deck flooring to cover the ice surface for concerts and other events during the winter season
- Addition of digital screens
The upgrades are being covered through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation ($551,276) and FedNor ($300,000).
Robertson also mentions that as part of the annual capital renewal plan, the Gardens is getting an upgrade to LED lightning, new floors and refrigeration plant maintenance/reconditioning.
