Written By Jan Sims
ILDERTON - A major upgrade to the Ilderton Arena has received a $1 million dollar boost from the Province of Ontario. Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP Steve Pinsonneault was on hand for the announcement earlier this month. It’s a $4 million dollar project that has experienced some financial hurdles in the past, with several unsuccessful attempts by the municipality to secure funding from upper tier governments.
The grant money announced in July is coming from the province’s Community Sport and Infrastructure Fund, and will go towards extensive work at the arena. For visitors and users, some of the more visible upgrades include renovations to the lobby and viewing areas, a new entrance and washroom facilities, improvements to the spectator areas involving benches and overhead heating, and enhancements to dressing rooms.
There are also improvements to safety features for players on the ice, including taller rink glass and rink boards. The new aluminum rink boards will allow for some give when skaters hit the boards.
The project also has a number of behind-the-scenes components including upgraded refrigeration, which is designed to reduce energy use.
The arena has been closed since early spring while work has been underway. The Ilderton Arena was opened 52 years ago, and the renovations are designed to extend the lifespan for 10-12 years. After that, the municipality will look at replacing the arena with a twin ice pad facility.
The Ilderton Jets are among the active users of the arena, and it’s expected they’ll be back on the ice along with other groups in time for the fall ice season.
