Still in its early planning and development stages, the much-needed concrete rink slab replacement for the Maxville & District Sports Complex (MDSC) is estimated to be more than $2 million.
The MDSC was originally erected in 1978 and has approximately an area of 36,000 square feet. The complex was first financed and funded through a combination of donations and grants from local governments, service clubs, and community organizations.
It has hosted numerous sporting and family events over the years including public skating hours, shinny hockey, and some Eastern Ontario Wild AAA home hockey games.
An update to the North Glengarry council was provided on September 9, 2024 by a representative of EVB Engineering who outlined some of the work required. The representative stated that this sort of construction project is typically done within the period between ice hockey seasons. In this case, the work would need to be completed within five months to allow the next ice hockey season to proceed without delay.
When asked about specific timeline details, Anne Leduc, Director of Community Services for the Township of North Glengarry, stated that the MDSC “cement slab replacement project is in early stages yet, so the specific construction timeline is yet to be determined.”
Of the estimated $2,008,000 total cost of the project, $220,000 is set aside for the new concrete rink slab alone and another $270,000 for a new dasher board system. $200,000 was also set aside in the cost estimate for a “Contingency Allowance,” which would aim to cover unplanned expenses or issues that may arise during reconstruction.
In addition, Leduc noted, “budgets for construction projects contain a contingency and from past experience, expenses are reviewed constantly throughout the construction, and items may be modified or removed to remain within the budget.” This could mean that the project may come under the quoted $2 million price tag depending on the circumstances.
To help alleviate up to half of the cost of the reconstruction project, the council plans on examining all funding options and hopes to have another report for their review this Fall.
Once completed, the MDSC concrete slab will still be a full National Hockey League (NHL) size rink. Line painting on the slab will include a court for tennis, pickleball, and basketball.
