Things looking up at the WCEC

While the Klippers are practicing and scrimmaging at the Eston Complex today, their own arena is getting closer to being re-opened.

I had a chat with Walker Projects representative Brendon Franz today. He's in Kindersley most of the time, overseeing the project on-site.

He told me - and I drove over to the rink afterward to confirm - that the structure of the new entrance/concession area behind the arena is finished. Once they finish the insulation and drywall inside, they'll be ready to install the kitchen equipment and cabinets. There are two entrances to the area, one on the left which brings you into the lobby, and another on the right at the end of the south hallway.

The Klippers' dressing room and fitness area are done, with only a few minor touch-ups to be done. The bleachers are getting a new coat of paint and that's almost completed. The fire alarm system has been certified and they are in the process of doing the same for the sprinkler system.

Four companies have been selected to submit designs to Walker by the end of October. They were picked from a group of six by an interview panel that included town administrator Sherry Magnuson, a town councillor, and three reps from Walker.

The tender for removing the cement pad from the Ex is also close to being awarded, and the block is supposed to be gone by the end of next month.

It's no secret that there's been a ton of skepticism in this town over how quickly this clean-up was going and whether it would get done on time. If you ask me, things are looking pretty good for that Oct. 1 target.

Here's a look at the addition on the back of the rink: