A new area to enjoy sports at the RJ Lalonde arena in Bonnyville could soon be a reality. C2 General Manager Todd Muir was in Bonnyville council to present a new seating area being planned for the arena. The new design will see a drink rail and lounge area replace the west end.
“We’ll remove that wall. Then we’ll replace it with four retractable glass doors and then a drink rail with a hard surface. It’s a very impressive looking one.”
The plan also sees the back row of seating removed to accommodate the area needed for a lounge. Some concern was raised about removing seats after demand has been so high during events like the World Junior A Challenge.
Muir says a lounge should be able to allow more people to congregate.
“It will open up and allow people to sit back there. I don’t think you’re reducing your spectator numbers here. In fact, you’re probably increasing them.”
A second project will see the southwest entrance to the arena modernized with a wheelchair lift. The two projects are expected to cost around $325,000. Council expects to discuss the project during budget allocation meetings in the next few months.
