Welch said the new rink will also include amenities for new sports, such as pickleball | Mik Horvath / MBC
In January, Douglas Recreation announced its outdoor rink (ODR) is getting a complete overhaul thanks due in part to a $150,000 grant from the provincial government.
However, nothing is truly free so Douglas Rec has to organize some fundraising to cover the remaining cost of the project.
Rec Treasurer Jesse Welch said the committee is hosting “Fundraiser Fridays”; once a month a Friday will be selected for locals to band together to raise money for rink revitalization costs.
First up is an Irish Pub Night on March 6.
Welch said fundraising doesn’t have to be boring, the rec committee not only wants to see community support, but to also have fun along the way.
There are plans booked well into spring as well.
The grant was distributed as part of a package deal with Admaston/Bromley Recreation who have also received funding to revitalize their ODR located right by Admaston Public School.
Welch said this project wouldn’t be possible without Admaston/Bromley wanted to redo their rink as well.
The project is a big one; Welch said the rink will pretty much be completely rebuilt from the ground-up including a new foundation and new boards.
The boards are actually being replaced by the outgoing boards from Arnprior’s Nick Smith Centre revitalization, a reflection of the support Ottawa Valley communities share.
(Written by Mik Horvath)