“High Level Ice Rink Temporarily Closed for Repairs”

The lone ice rink in High Level, a town in northern Alberta, had to close temporarily due to structural damage, causing concern among skaters, curlers, and hockey players as they entered their busiest season. Mayor Josh Lambert stated that a severely deteriorated concrete piling was discovered at the High Level Sports Complex during foundation repairs, likely caused by a long-standing leak in the ice plant’s brine system. The closure, including the cancellation of a local minor hockey skills camp, was a precautionary measure while engineers stabilize the building. Lambert emphasized the priority of safety and mentioned that the repair timeline is expected to be brief, with the ice plant remaining operational. The closure coincides with the ongoing closure of the town’s aquatic center, with plans to address repairs starting in October. Despite the challenges, High Level Curling Club president Raye Smith-Knox remains optimistic, noting the importance of the sports complex as a community hub for residents of all ages.