Construction Update:
The new arena is now fully enclosed with the insulated metal panels installed, exterior doors in place, and the roof deck complete. The contractor continues to work on the roof.
Inside the building, work has begun on the wood ceiling which will feature spruce, pine and fir boards over the open web steel joists. The block work is complete and hand railings are 90 per cent complete. The drywall work and painting are underway.
The electrical, plumbing, mechanical and refrigeration equipment installation continues. Major air handling and refrigeration equipment is on site and being installed, including the ice plant compressors.
Arena 1 Demolition:
The contractor will begin the process of demolishing Arena 1 and the lobby on Tuesday, April 11. The contractor will begin by undertaking hazardous material abatement which is expected to take a number of weeks before they begin demolition.
In addition to the demolition, a number of mechanical, electrical, IT, and refrigeration systems will need to be relocated or installed to ensure that Arena 2 continues to operate without service interruption.
Schedule and Budget:
The project continues to be on schedule for completion by September 2017 and on budget for $20.6 million. Close to $4.2 million has been spent to date on local contractors and suppliers on the project. This project is a joint initiative of the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) and City of Quesnel under the CRD’s North Cariboo Recreation and Parks function.
Fundraising:
Time is running out if you want to sponsor a seat or be a part of the mural project before the facility opens. In order to ensure your donation is recognized when the facility opens in September, donations must be made before June 30. If you haven’t sponsored a seat or made a donation to the project, contact the fundraising coordinator by email at: arenaproject@quesnel.ca.
Grand Opening:
The Official Opening of the West Fraser Centre is planned for the weekend of September 16 & 17. Planning for the event is underway.
Final Skate:
A final FREE public skate will be held in Arena 1 on Sunday, March 26 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Come out for a nostalgic evening of fun for the whole family. There will be hot chocolate, cake, music and a chance to share your memories of the ‘old barn’.