Smithers, B.C. – The  new arena project in Smithers has received a financial boost from Northern Development Initiative Trust.

 

The Trust’s Board of Directors has approved a $250 thousand dollar grant to go towards the $4.7 million dollar project.

 

Nanaimo based C&M Developments will design and build the new arena which will be built adjacent to the existing arena.

 

"An arena is more than just a sheet of ice. An arena is a place where people come together, an asset that builds a stronger north, and a legacy that makes Smithers a more desirable and enjoyable place to live," said Evan Saugstad, Chair, Northern Development Initiative Trust. "Northern Development is proud to partner with the great people of Smithers to support this important project – and we can’t wait to see the building when it’s complete."

 

The existing arena is 52 years old and can no longer meet the demand for use by area residents who want to skate or play hockey.

 

"The Town of Smithers is truly grateful for Northern Development’s funding commitment," said Town of Smithers Mayor Taylor Bachrach. "The new arena is a big project for Smithers and this additional funding means we’re one step closer to seeing this important project become a reality."

 

So far, the project has secured just over $4 million in funding including $2.35 million in provincial grants and the Town of Smithers kicking in just over a million by borrowing $650 thousand, and using $400 thousand from the Land Sales Reserves. 

 

The new arena is expected to be complete by the end of September 2014 and will feature an NHL sized ice surface, as well as first phase seating capacity of at least 350.