THUNDER BAY – An online photo of the zamboni doors at Current River Arena is getting the attention of officials with the City of Thunder Bay.
Franco Marchese, manager of facilities services, was shown the photo of the end doors at the arena that went viral just days before the facility closed for the season.
He stated that the boards are “distorted due to frost heaving.”
“We are currently investigating solutions to mitigate the effects of future frost build up on those doors. Repairs are expected to be completed prior to opening,” Marchese added.
“Through our normal operating cycle at the end of each season, our staff ensure scheduled maintenance work is completed in all closed arenas. This includes the repairs needed for the ice resurfacer doors at Current River Arena. Scheduled maintenance work includes but is not limited to boards, refrigeration systems, building and grounds maintenance.”
When it comes to the Fort William Gardens, Kelvin Jankowski, supervisor of construction services with the city, confirmed through a spokesperson that the focus will be on replacing the condenser and main speaker.
“Upgrades will also be made to ice plant heat recovery, supported by funding the city received through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Program,” the spokesperson said.
In 2021, city council adopted a long-term investment plan for the Gardens that would see $3 million in upgrades over four years, with the goal of extending the arena's lifespan for at least 15 years.
