- Stouffville’s Memorial Park skating trail, now referred to as a multi-purpose trail, is set to open early this summer.
- The trail’s smooth surface will cater to various recreational activities beyond winter skating, including walking, scooting, in-line skating, and more.
- While Stouffville was hopeful to open the new amenity this winter, completion was delayed due to supply chain issues.
- The project exceeded its budget by $2.64 million, however the Town is exploring additional grant opportunities to help cover the added costs.
According to Town Spokesperson Glenn Jackson, difficulties in acquiring custom structural steel pushed back the completion of the new building’s roof. Consequently, other building construction aspects were put on pause.
An internal refrigeration plant will maintain the trail’s frozen surface, but supply chain disruptions delayed its completion as well. Thankfully, Jackson confirmed the system’s functionality following a successful test earlier this month.
“We are pleased to report that, along with cooperation from the weather, we were able to start up the plant and test the equipment on April 12 and 13,” Jackson told us. “As a result of overnight rain, a thin layer of ice was visible in the morning which confirmed a successful installation. We are excited to bring this amenity to our community this coming winter.”
Town Staff are now investigating grant opportunities to cover the project’s $2.64 million cost overruns, including the recently announced Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund.
During the Ward 3 Town Hall meeting in March, Mayor Lovatt noted that the Town separated the building project from delivery of the skating trail. In doing so, there could be an opportunity to retroactively apply for additional support from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program—which provided $4.09 million in initial funding for the trail.
A formal grand opening announcement is expected in the near future.
