An update on the progress of La Salle's proposed all-season indoor arena, which is set to transform local ice sports and community activities.
Plans for a new all-season indoor arena in La Salle are progressing, with organizers seeking substantial government funding. The proposed 34,000-square-foot facility will be attached to the existing Caisse Community Centre, offering year-round access to ice sports and other activities. The arena will include indoor seating, changeroom bleachers, and a dedicated parking lot, accommodating spring leagues, summer camps, and other events not currently available in surrounding municipalities like Oak Bluff, Starbuck, and Sanford.
The project's total cost is estimated at $9.6 million. On September 10, 2023, organizers announced that they had secured $2.5 million through the provincial Arts, Culture, and Sport in Community Large Capital Grant. The Rural Municipality (RM) has pledged an additional $3.54 million and submitted a borrowing bylaw for approval to fund this contribution. The remaining funding will come from federal grants, $100,000 in community fundraising, and financing from Caisse Financial Group.
Brian Cornelsen, President of the Caisse Community Centre, noted that the community centre was designed in 2014 to accommodate such an addition. With 50% of RM Macdonald’s hockey and ringette registrations coming from La Salle, the arena is expected to reduce travel and increase local participation in ice sports.
Though timelines remain uncertain, The project has been a long-term goal for over 25 years, marking significant progress for the La Salle community.
Sources:
Community Futures Manitoba Inc. supports local entrepreneurs and communities by providing resources, training, and business loans to promote economic growth and development, with upcoming free workshops to help businesses thrive.
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