Released December 10, 2024
WEYBURN– The City of Weyburn regrets to announce that Crescent Point Place and Tom Zandee Sports Arena will remain closed following a second ammonia leak in the ice plant chiller. This unfortunate development has further delayed the reopening of these facilities, now anticipated to occur in the new year.
The chiller, purchased new and installed for the 2023/24 season, had successfully passed pressure testing after recent repairs. These tests exceeded the normal operating pressures of the system, and the chiller had been functioning as expected for the past week. Despite these measures, the chiller experienced another failure.
Earlier on Monday, measurements of the ice depth confirmed it was ready for limited use. Plans were set to allow teams to begin light skating sessions on Tuesday, gradually increasing to a full schedule of ice use by Friday, December 13. However, at approximately 5:30 PM, an ammonia leak was detected, forcing all activities to stop. Consultants arrived on-site and are currently conducting detailed inspections to identify the cause and work toward a solution.
“City staff and contractors worked tirelessly over the past week to rebuild the ice and prepare the arenas for reopening,” said Andrew Crowe, Director of Leisure Services. “This outcome is deeply disappointing. Our team is devastated after putting in countless hours, often working late into the night, doing everything possible to get the facilities ready. We were all excited to welcome skaters back into our arenas, and this setback is not the outcome anyone hoped for.”
Unfortunately, the ice that had been installed must now be removed again, as the chiller cannot operate in its current state. This will result in a longer delay before the facilities can be reopened for user groups and the public. While no specific timeline for repairs is available at this time, the City remains committed to resolving the issue as quickly as possible in collaboration with contractors and consultants.
The City of Weyburn extends its gratitude to the facilities staff, Weyburn Red Wings volunteers, and contractors for their dedication during this challenging time. Their hard work and commitment to preparing the arenas reflect their determination to overcome these difficulties and provide a solution for the community.
While this situation is both unexpected and frustrating, the City is focused on finding a permanent resolution to ensure the safety and reliability of the arena systems. We appreciate the community’s understanding and support as we work through this process.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The City remains committed to keeping the public informed and looks forward to welcoming skaters and players back to the arenas as soon as possible. Thank you for your continued support
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For media inquiries contact:
Kyle Hertes
Communications Coordinator | City of Weyburn
(306) 848-3236 | khertes@weyburn.ca