The Town of Drumheller is making substantial progress at the former curling rink site, marking a significant milestone in the town’s ongoing revitalization efforts.
Completing the building’s demolition signifies a new chapter for the community, as plans for the site’s restoration are now in motion.
The former curling rink, a Town-owned building with a rich 70-plus-year history, faced significant challenges in early 2022. Despite potential costly repairs, it was clear the aging structure would offer only a limited extension to its lifespan. After careful consideration and in the community’s best interest, a decision was made to move forward with the demolition and pave the way for redevelopment.
On April 16, 2024, Town Council awarded Roadbridge Services the contract for the demolition of the building, which includes vital asbestos abatement, for $265,853.95. Due to the building’s age, a Phase 2 Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) was conducted, revealing soil contamination. This led to the necessity for asbestos and mould remediation and extensive environmental testing.
These actions highlight the Town’s commitment to a safe and sustainable restoration process. The demolition project budget was $500,000, and to date, the work completed is under budget.
Demolition of the curling rink aligns with the Town’s Downtown Area Revitalization Plan (DARP), a visionary initiative aimed at rejuvenating the heart of Drumheller over the next 15 years. As part of this strategic plan, the former curling rink will give way to a dynamic public connector, extending Centre Street for pedestrians into the park and towards the river, enhancing the town’s cultural and recreational landscape.
The former curling rink site is undergoing regular environmental monitoring, emphasizing the Town’s commitment to transparency and safety. Fencing will remain in place until the end of September.
