• Stouffville’s Memorial Park skating trail is set to open with a soft launch on Dec. 14.
  • Delays occurred due to structural issues with the changeroom building, but repairs were completed at no additional cost to the Town.
  • The trail will feature a capacity of 250 skaters, accessible washrooms, and storage for the ice resurfacer, with concessions planned once a vendor is selected.
  • During warmer months, gates in the newly-added fencing will remain open to allow full access to Memorial Park, and the washrooms will be open year-round.
  • The Town continues to seek additional Federal and Provincial funding opportunities to cover the project’s $2.64 million cost overruns.

 

With the arrival of colder temperatures and the changeroom facility nearing completion, Stouffville’s long wait for the new Memorial Park skating trail is nearly over.

An obstruction recently identified within the trail’s refrigeration system has been cleared, and ice building will begin following a final cleaning of the trail’s surface. A soft opening is planned for Saturday, Dec. 14, with a formal grand opening scheduled as part of the Mayor’s Levee on Jan. 10.

If weather conditions permit, the trail may be ready for use a few days before the Dec. 14 opening.

Inadequate structural rebar supports within the changeroom building’s walls required shoring and corrections, causing additional delays. However, the work was performed by the contractor at no extra cost to the town, Bullet Point News was told. Final inspections of the structure are underway this week.

“The changeroom facility is substantially complete and will be ready for use starting Dec. 14,” Town spokesperson Glenn Jackson said. “While there may be minor finishing touches to address, they will not impact public access or the ability to enjoy the trail or the changerooms.”

The building will also feature accessible washrooms and storage for the trail’s ice resurfacer. Concessions will be available once a suitable vendor is selected.

“We’re optimistic about having an incredible skating season. This new trail is a wonderful addition to our town’s recreational offerings, and we can’t wait for the community to get out on the ice and enjoy,” Jackson added.

The site has been permanently fenced for safety reasons and to help Staff manage the number of skaters during operations. The trail is expected to accommodate approximately 250 skaters at a time.

During warmer months, gates throughout the fence will remain open to provide continuous access to the park area. The washrooms will also stay open year-round for pickleball players, skate park users, and other Memorial Park visitors.

The project’s original budget was $5.577 million, with $4.09 million funded by a Federal and Provincial grant through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. However, in March 2023, an additional $2.64 million was required to cover a greater-than-anticipated final construction contract.

The expense was approved by Council, which committed to investigating additional funding opportunities to offset the overrun. Town Staff are now actively pursuing potential Federal and Provincial sources.