The City of Weyburn has announced via press release that a second ammonia leak has occurred at Crescent Point Place and Tom Zandee Sports Arena, forcing both to remain closed until further notice.
While the City had originally hoped to have both arenas open for limited use today, they did confirm that the second leak will delay the opening of these facilities, likely into the new year.
According to the release, the ice plant chiller, which is experiencing the leaks, was bought and installed for the 2023/2024 season and had successfully passed pressure testing after recent repairs and had been functioning during the past week. Throughout the last few days, crews have been working to put in new ice at the arenas and ice depth was confirmed on Monday. However, after the leak was detected, all activity was forced to stop.
“City staff and contractors worked tirelessly over the past week to rebuild the ice and prepare the arenas for reopening,” said Andrew Crowe, Director of Leisure Services in the release. “This outcome is deeply disappointing. Our team is devastated after putting in countless hours, often working late into the night, doing everything possible to get the facilities ready. We were all excited to welcome skaters back into our arenas, and this setback is not the outcome anyone hoped for.”
The new ice will now be removed and work will begin on the chiller. Consultants have arrived and are currently working on detailed inspections to identify the cause and solution.
While this happens, both Crescent Point Place and Tom Zandee Sports arena will be closed to both user groups and members of the public.
The City has also stated that they will continue to update the public as more becomes available.