It’s a shorter season than usual for Inuvik skaters and curlers this winter.
The arena ice and curling rinks at the Midnight Sun Complex are closing a month early because of mechanical issues.
Steve Krug, Inuvik’s parks, recreation and leisure services director, said the repairs need to be done as soon as possible before any potential damage is caused to the facility.
The curling rink closes this Friday, while the hockey rink will shut on March 7. Krug said the rink will keep regular programming until then.
Krug said a “major problem” was found at the ice plant.
“Unfortunately we can’t continue to operate for the safety of our patrons and users and also for our staff. Ultimately it came to a decision to close due to this mechanical issue.”
Last week, the town noticed a problem with leaking coolant.
Krug explained the arena ice is artificial and needs coolant running constantly under the rink surface to keep the ice frozen. Without the coolant, there could be areas that are soft and would create safety issues for public.
Krug said he knows the arena closing a month early will not be easy for some users but asks for the public’s understanding.
“Just as unfortunate as it is, as myself as a hockey player and arena user, making that tough decision makes it personally challenging but it affects a number of people, so just looking for the community’s patience and understanding,” he said.
The early closure means some planned events won’t happen this winter, including the annual Rock Star Youth Curling Festival for kids ages five to eight. The event sees 30 to 70 youth participating depending on the year.
Nick Saturnino, the Inuvik Curling Centre’s chair, said the closure is unfortunate but the timing works well for some users of the complex.
“A number of us are headed to Alaska for Arctic Winter Games, so a lot of the individuals that would be using the ice or running programs would be out of town anyway, so it’s a bit of a blessing in disguise from that perspective,” said Saturnino.
Krug said the repairs will be done soon and hopefully won’t affect the next ice season.
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