Pipestone Flyer
A recent report says to improve their standing as a sport tourism destination, the City of Leduc needs to continue to enhance their sports facilities. As part of the City’s 10-year plan, there are plans to build another twin rink facility in the west end, but there are no plans to get rid of the old barn.
Alexandra Arena has been a part of Leduc’s athletic history since it was built in 1952 and while rumours swirled that it would be torn down once the Leduc Recreation Centre was completed, Director of Community and Protective Services, Darrell Melvie, said, “They were rumours then, and there’s no plans to change that now... From a facilities perspective, we need it,” said Melvie.
In 2012, the dehumidifier was replaced, new rink boards and glass were installed, and the dressing room floors and fire alarm panel were upgraded. In 2014, the lights were upgraded. Over the next year, the furnaces will be replaced along with the exterior metal and the lobby floor will be upgraded. The roof is scheduled to be replaced in 2017 and 2019. These upgrades were needed to keep up with the demand for ice in Leduc, said Melvie.
“We’ve got four ice surfaces. For us to lose one isn’t an option,” he said. “The Alex is a very well-used facility in terms of prime time usage.”
Although the Figure Skating Club only uses the ice at the LRC, the Leduc Ringette Association, Leduc Minor Hockey Association and adult hockey players regularly use the Alexandra Arena. “If we don’t have the Alex, it would impact everyone.”
As part of the 10-year Capital Plan, land was purchased west of Leduc, near where Fire Hall 2 will open next year, but it’s a long-term project, said Melvie, and even then there is no plan to get rid of the Alex.
“For now, the building is functioning and serves a need in our community.”