Dalhousie University a step closer to a new arena
Construction of a new arena complex for Dalhousie University is one step closer to reality.
On Friday, the Nova Scotia cabinet approved the idea of leasing 5846 South St. to the university for $1 over 75 years.
The one-hectare site is across from the IWK Health Centre. Dalhousie has been without a rink since April 2012 when its Memorial Arena was torn down.
Halifax Forum too far away
Varsity hockey teams have been using the Halifax Forum but university officials say the facility is too far away for intramural teams or student skating programs.
"It makes it difficult for our students to have a place they can regularly use," said Jeff Lamb, assistant vice-president of facilities management. "Having something on campus is good for student spirit."
University officials have not decided if the new facility will be a one- or two-rink complex. Negotiations are ongoing with other institutions and community groups.
Development to include parking
In either case, the development will include parking, partly to replace the existing parking lot on the site.
"We may have to build it underneath the ice surface," explained Lamb. "But the land does slope away nicely so putting something underneath wouldn't be all that difficult."
The university plans to hold public consultations on the project.
$18M price tag
A single rink is estimated to cost $18 million and the money will be fundraised.
Halifax regional council, meanwhile, has approved further study of a proposed expansion of the Halifax Forum.
One of the concerns cited was the possible construction of a new rink by Dalhousie and the loss of revenue at the Forum.
