An unfortunate turn of events for Sundre’s outdoor rink means the ice surface will not be ready as early as originally hoped.
Unseasonably warm conditions recently resulted in the ground heaving up and breaking a lengthy stretch of the ice, leaving fragmented chunks that Town of Sundre staff had to remove since the surface would otherwise not settle properly, said Sue Nelson, community services manager.
That left a significant portion of the protective liner underneath exposed, and ensuing damage has left many holes and cuts in the plastic that prevents flooding water from seeping into the ground, which has not yet frozen, she said.
Initially planned to open to the public either during the holidays or early in the new year, that is no longer likely, she said.
“It’s just sad. I was so excited when I drove up because it looked like it was quite close to being ready and we could have had it opened this weekend. It’s a little disappointing,” she said on Tuesday, Dec. 18.
Although closed for the time being, efforts to try to remedy the situation will go on, provided the ground freezes enough to allow further flooding without the water just being absorbed into the ground. It may also be possible to tape up and seal the numerous cuts so flooding efforts can resume. The cost of the plastic liner is about $5,000 and as of last week it was not yet known whether it would need to be replaced, she said.
“We’re going to give it a try and do all of our best to see if we can get this up and running after Christmas,” said Nelson, adding that could not be guaranteed and that the worst-case scenario is the rink will remain closed for the rest of the season.
