INNISFAIL - Construction for the new chalet at the Innisfail Ski Hill is on schedule with completion expected just in time for the upcoming skiing season.
In mid-June, the old lodge that served the ski hill for 57 years was demolished to make way for workers to build a new and larger chalet that could cost up to $385,000.
As of mid-August, workers have completed the foundation and basic frame of the new facility.
Brent Jackson, the president of the ski hill, a private non-profit society that is administered by a 10 to 12-member volunteer board, said he’s pleased with the progress. He said citizens have been commenting positively about the project.
“I think it will be a good asset. It will create an extra place to meet if they need to off-season. It should be fun,” said Jackson, noting the new chalet will also have extra space in the basement.
“There is some storage (room) down there and there will be a decent sized room probably for rental if need be. He said the club is also looking at the option of room rentals during the off-season.
“That is kind of why we built it this way. We haven’t looked into it fully yet."
The new chalet, which is expected to be completed by the end of November, will be about 2,000 square feet in size, about 33 per cent larger than the old lodge.
When finished, the facility will have more space for both guests and gear, an upgraded concession and larger washrooms.
In the meantime, talks are still ongoing between the club and town about possible local financial assistance. Last June, council directed administration to look into the possibility of the town contributing financially to the project.
“We talked to the town and we are just trying to figure out closer to completion if we need assistance of some sort. They have offered, if need be,” said Jackson.
“We haven’t come to any financial pricing or any amount but they are interested in helping if we need help, so that is great.”
The club will also have a better idea next month whether it will be successful in obtaining a $125,000 matching provincial Community Facility Enhancement Program (CFEP) grant, he said.
