ERIN – During the “much-needed” Centre 2000 renovations the Town of Erin has decided to open the Hillsburgh Community Centre rink earlier than in previous seasons, officials stated.
The arena’s ice season typically opens the first week of October and closes the last week of March.
This year the ice will be opening after Labour day and close at the end of March – with hours of operation based on “programming needs,” stated officials.
Throughout the summer the Erin Community Centre and Arena has been undergoing several upgrades.
Renovations to the snack bar, main lobby, new flooring, stainless-steel countertops in the commercial kitchen are a few of the ongoing projects.
The centre will also be receiving upgrades to the fire system and HVAC system, in addition to a new generator, allowing the building to become an emergency centre in times of need.
“These changes are going to greatly improve not only the look and feel of our recreation centre, but also ensure safety and comfort for years to come,” stated parks and recreation manager Dee-Enna Dube in a town press release.
The municipality received a $1.9 million grant from the Canada Infrastructure program to support the construction cost. The centre will be closed to the public throughout the summer with the ice rink slated to open in October.
Erin staff have found an alternative accommodation for groups who will be impacted by the renovations over the summer.
The Hillsburgh rink will be opening earlier for the entire skating and hockey season for those interested, stated officials.
“We are so excited about the upgrades underway at the site and are working to minimize the impact on residents and user groups over the summer,” stated Dube.
The grounds of Centre 2000 are set to remain open to the public, including the baseball diamond and soccer fields with “most of the work” expected to be finished by January, officials stated.
“The contractors are in the early stages of work and are currently starting upgrades on the building’s fire alarm system,” town spokesperson Alexandra Heck told the Advertiser via email.
Preliminary work is also underway on other areas of the building, she added.
The generator is expected to be installed in 2025.
