District of Fort St. James approved up to $300,000 for the replacement of the curling rink refrigeration plant in a bid to ensure continued winter recreation for the community. The proposed replacement is scheduled for installation in 2024.
Council made the decision during it’s March 27 budget meeting ahead of a May 1 deadline on lead time to have the plant replaced and operational for fall season ice installation.
The replacement decision comes amidst concerns over the outdated and failing infrastructure of the curling rink.
Recent failures in the refrigeration plant have disrupted key events, including the cancellation of significant bonspiels, resulting in financial setbacks for the Curling Club.
With the existing plant reaching the end of its serviceable life span and facing challenges with obsolete R22 refrigerant, repairs are deemed unsustainable.
Moreover, staff have highlighted the potential environmental benefits of the replacement, with the new plant expected to be 10 to 15 per cent more efficient, aligning with carbon reduction strategies.
In addition Regional District of Bulkley Nechako is also discussing with the Curling Club to possibly fund the replacement of the heating system and install ease of access for wheelchair patrons for upstairs and downstairs.
Financial considerations were a huge part of the decision, with estimates indicating a cost range of $250,000 to $300,000 for complete replacement. Alternatively, retrofitting the existing plant and addressing known faults could incur costs of $35,000 to $40,000, albeit with no guarantees of prolonged functionality.