Tofield Agricultural Society Requests Funding for Arena Upgrades

Tofield Agricultural Society Requests Funding for Arena Upgrades

Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser

The Tofield Agricultural Society is looking to replace the floor and upgrade its Zamboni room in the Tofield Arena.

Representatives with the Ag. Society recently made presentations to the Town of Tofield and Beaver County councils, outlining the scope of the projects as well as provide three possible funding scenarios.

According to estimates, the arena floor and headerreturn system project would be $1 million for replacement and construction with a $200,000 engineering and contingency for a total cost of $1.2 million, provided the Ag. Society was not successful in obtaining any grant dollars.

Estimates to replace and relocate the existing Zamboni room to the eastside of the building is $300,000 with a $60,000 engineering and contingency for a total cost of $360,000.

According to a structural engineering report the Zamboni room was deemed unsafe, exposing many deficiencies and concerns. There are exposed gas lines, and if hit by the Zamboni, has the potential for catastrophic results. It was determined that there is no way to modify the current room.

The Ag. Society will be applying for the following grants:

• Green & Inclusive Community Building Program grant for $1,146,000. (It would require a matching portion from the ag. society of $32,500.)

• UFA Rural Communities grant for $100,000

• Battle River Community Foundation grant for $10,000

If it is unsuccessful in obtaining any grants, they would be looking to the Town of Tofield and Beaver County to contribute $500,000 a piece with the Ag. Society contributing $200,000.

The Tofield Arena is owned and operated by the Ag. Society. It was built in 1972 with an addition in 2009. In the winter months the ice surface is used 60 hours per week. The ice surface is used by:

• Tofield Minor Hockey - 60 percent

• Adult Hockey - 18 percent

• Figure Skating – 11 percent

• Drop-in Programs – 11 percent (Eg/ public skating, shinny hockey, Tofield School and CW Sears School)

Usage of the ice surface is from Tofield, Beaver County and surrounding area. In the off-season it is used for agricultural events, ball tournaments, dance performances and summer programs.

Tofield Agricultural Society President Dave Berrecloth explained that, “In the spring of 2021 the Tofield Agricultural Society in conjunction with the Town of Tofield engaged a consulting company to evaluate the arena slab, header pipe, and associated trenches. The purpose of this visit was to access the overall condition of the slab, and to provide any suggestions regarding preventive maintenance and conditions. The report explains that the floor and current slab has passed the end of expected life cycle.

Through this assessment there were many pieces of attention brought to light, as well as price estimates. With this report a decision was made to reach out and perform a similar assessment and cost review which was completed and confirmed the needs of the facility.

Through investigation and review with Tofield Agricultural Society and Town of Tofield it was determined that a floor and brine line replacement is necessary. “Both respective councils have been receptive and have committed to verbally participating,” added Berrecloth.

He pointed out that, “The Town of Tofield secured a granting specialist to help with applications and grant opportunities that is being completed and we are waiting on results of applications. Tofield Agricultural Society is also looking at alternatives and will be holding a fundraiser in the near future with tickets being purchased online supporting this project.”

Berrecloth went on to say that, “Since 1972 this facility has been a vital component of Tofield and Beaver County and a strong part of our community. It provides a gathering spot for families and friends to enjoy such events that help develop, promote and maintain healthy lifestyles. It’s a place to showcase and enjoy events that individuals take great pride in their accomplishments and talents and for us to enjoy.

It is important to the Tofield Agricultural Society and its members to continue to work on behalf of the community and surrounding areas and is optimistic on the ability to move forward in all capacities.”