(ACI Architects Inc.)

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

moving ahead

Blackfalds Multiplex expansion to go to tender early next year

Sep 16, 2019 | 1:56 PM

Good vibes continue to increase in Blackfalds as the town moves forward with ambitious plans to expand its multiplex.

About 200 people came out last Thursday to an open house at the current multiplex to see the latest renderings for what’s being proposed.

“Things seem to be falling into place. We’re still in the consultation phase, but we’re moving toward the end of that,” says Mayor Richard Poole. “From here, we’ll be looking at the architects to provide final renderings, and if everything goes well, we’ll be moving into tender early in the new year.”

The project’s main attraction is the addition of a second ice rink, which will include seating for over 1200. Poole confirming they are in talks with the Alberta Junior Hockey League about bringing Jr. ‘A’ franchise to Blackfalds.

Earlier this year, council also opted to move ahead the library portion of the project in order to save money on construction costs.

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“By putting it with the arena, we’re going to be seeing a lot of people who maybe don’t go into a library now walking into one and becoming a part of library culture,” Poole says. “I’d like residents to really become involved in the project. If they want to put in comments, the community services department will continue to take them for the next little while.”

Meantime, the Dual Ice Development Society (DIDS) is set to hit its $1 million goal in the next 10 months, according to President Karen Sernecky.

“We’re working with RC Strategies — and we’ll still have our New Year’s event and Raise the Rink, but outside of that, we’re working to hit the ground running with fundraising by getting individuals and companies to sponsor different parts of the multiplex, such as a seat or a dressing room,” she says.

She notes a ribbon cutting or sod turning event is also planned for the spring.