Kal Tire Place (Vernon Matters photo)

By Pete McIntyre

UPDATE

Kal Tire Place repairs will take longer than first thought, bookings being adjusted

Mar 11, 2024 | 2:20 PM

Kal Tire Place could be closed for the rest of the week as crews work to repair an ice chiller and then install a new ice surface.

The City of Vernon said an ammonia alarm at the arena was activated at around 9 p.m. on Saturday, March 9, leading to an immediate shutdown of the system.

The safety system worked as designed and isolated the ammonia in the equipment, allowing crews to conduct a safety check, identifying a small leak.

It was originally estimated that repairs would take one to two days, but a further assessment has shown it will take longer.

Shayne Wright, manager of community recreation, said the ice chiller requires urgent repairs before the ice sheet at Kal Tire Place South can be used.

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“In order to safely facilitate the repair work, the refrigeration system must remain off resulting in the existing ice surface thawing and needing removal. Once the repairs have been completed, installation of a new ice surface will take place, requiring at least five days,” Wright explained.

Wright added while the urgent repair has disrupted some programs and user groups, it is essential that the city prioritize and ensure the safety of staff, contractors and public during.”

The city says all ice bookings and programs from March 11 to Sunday, March 17 at Kal Tire Place, Kal Tire Place North, and Priest Valley Arena are being adjusted. More information on reopening Kal Tire South will be available once repairs are complete.

The Vernon Vipers have home games against Alberni Valley and Nanaimo Friday and Saturday. The status of those is not known.

The city said all user groups will be contacted regarding their rentals, and Kal Tire Place will remain open for the in-door walking program as well as for meeting room booking.

Kal Tire Place North uses a separate system which was not affected and will remain open.

For more information, visit Gvrec.ca.

Kal Tire Place shut down for two days
March 10, 2024

Vernon’s main arena will be closed for a couple of days to allow crews to make some repairs.

The city said in a news release issued Sunday, Kal Tire Place will be shut down Sunday and Monday (March 10 and 11) to allow the main ice chiller to be fixed.

“As city crews repair the chiller, the ice surface will start to thaw. Ice use will not be available until after the chiller has been repaired,” the news release stated.

Kal Tire North remains open.

Some events have been cancelled or rescheduled to other arenas.

“The city appreciates everyone’s patience while this important work is being completed,” the release said.