THUNDER BAY -- Delaney Arena will operate in a reduced manner for the 2024-25 season.
As a result, the rink will only operated between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. on weekdays, and 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends, and will only be open to children 13 and younger this season.
The ice will only be flooded when absolutely necessary and will feature minimal tournament action. The city will only turn on bleacher heaters when absolutely necessary.
The city, which owns and operates the rink, is blaming problems with the arena floor refrigeration system that led to unexpected closures and cancellations last season.
The problems have been temporarily fixed, but an external assessment confirmed it won't be possible to operate the rink in full fashion this fall and winter.
The city's construction services department is working on a plan to replace the arena floor next year, should the cost be approved by city council.
"We appreciate your understanding and patience as we implement the ice allocation and contracts with these temporary modifications in place. With your cooperation and flexibility on ice times and locations, we will be able to accommodate all users within the city's arenas," says a release, posted to the city's website.
