George Bell Arena opened in 1961 and includes an indoor ice rink, mechanical and electrical rooms, change rooms, washrooms, and office spaces. The City is improving the roof and some of the building’s components to ensure the facility is in a state of good repair.
The timeline is subject to change.
Interior painting started and progressed well. Installation of the new sump pit was completed. Door frame installation advanced, and work on roof parapets and cap sheet at flat roofs continued.
Demolition to create the new entrance opening was finalized. Installation of new canopy footings commenced, and flat roof installation continued to progress. Work on the new elevator sump pit advanced, while roof structure reinforcement over the arena began and moved forward steadily. Installation of electrical panels was also in progress.
Installation of the flat roof began and progressed well. Demolition of brick facing at the new entrance was completed. Interior roof drain installation moved forward, along with plumbing fittings and pipe insulation. Enlargement of the access pathway to the arena was underway. Masonry blockwork was largely completed, and electrical rough-in continued.
Backfilling of trenches for below-slab drainage was completed, and new concrete was installed to cover all slab cuts. Door openings at washrooms and dressing rooms were enlarged, with new lintels installed. Work on concrete block partitions and infill at existing openings advanced, while electrical and plumbing rough-ins continued.
Construction continues and is anticipated to be completed in September 2026. Demolition of the washroom and changing room walls is in progress. Floor protection has been installed over the existing rink slab.
Construction starts and the facility closes to the public.
A construction team is hired for the project.
The City started the process of hiring a construction team for the project.
Design work is progressing and is anticipated to be completed in summer 2024.
A consultant is hired for the project.
The City started the process of hiring an engineering consultant to provide design, engineering, and contract administration services for the project.
On June 1, the facility re-opened. Hockey associations and contract holders that typically use the arena will be operating their 2023/2024 ice season as usual from September 2023 to March/April 2024.
The City reviewed the final engineering report which noted that the roof required replacement within two years. The report allowed the facility to reopen in June 2023.
Unplanned closure of the facility for additional engineering investigation and physical testing of the facility roof. The City worked closely with the Arena Board of Management to relocate ice user groups for the spring and summer season.
The arena improvements will include:
The arena will be closed during construction.