NEWS RELEASE

Ground-breaking event for new four-pad arena complex

(Wednesday, October 14, 2009) - A long-awaited four-pad arena complex for the Halifax Regional Municipality is poised for construction with the official ground-breaking celebrated today.

“We are pleased to see work begin on this $39 million facility that will address a long-standing need for additional ice surfaces in the region,” said Mayor Peter Kelly. “This arena will be a place for everyone - from hockey lovers of all ages, to children learning to skate, to families enjoying time together on the ice.”

Bedford Councillor Tim Outhit also showed his support for this important new piece of civic infrastructure.

"This is a great day for HRM and a great day for our community. This facility will contribute to the overall health and wellness of our citizens, and will be a centerpiece for sport development and active living for all ages,” he said.

The arena project is funded through Halifax Regional Municipality and will be built to a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) silver standards. The arena will be fully owned by HRM and operated by Nustadia Recreation Inc.

“We operate facilities much like this one in many Canadian cities and we are delighted to begin a partnership with HRM to operate a top notch facility,” said Nustadia’s Ben Sproule.

Participants in minor sports such as hockey, ringette, figure skating, and sledge hockey will be the true beneficiaries of the new facility, said Bedford Minor Hockey President Todd Watson.

“It's all about the kids. We can't wait to come back here this time next year for our season opening games,” he said. “Today marks a new chapter in our sporting history.”

For more background information on this project visit www.Halifax.ca.

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Contact:

Mayor Peter Kelly

490-4010

Councillor Tim Outhit
District 21 - Bedford
490-5679
229-6385 (cell)