Township of Alnwick/Haldimand Approves Grafton Arena Rink Slab Replacement Project
Media Release
For Immediate Release
Grafton, ON – May 4, 2026 - The Council of the Township of Alnwick/Haldimand is moving forward with a major upgrade to the Haldimand Community Memorial Arena in Grafton following Council’s approval of both the project financing plan and the contract award for the arena rink slab replacement at its meeting on April 28, 2026.
Council has awarded the construction contract to J. J. McGuire General Contractors Inc. in the amount of $2,257,000, plus HST, with an additional $75,000, plus HST, approved for the installation of a low emissivity ceiling to improve energy efficiency and ice performance. The total project cost is $2,332,000, plus HST.
The project will include:
• Demolition and replacement of the existing concrete rink slab;
• Upgrades to refrigeration and cooling systems;
• Installation of new rink boards and glass; and
• Addition of a low emissivity ceiling to improve energy efficiency and ice quality.
The Township has retained consulting firm Barry Bryan Associates to oversee the project from design through to completion. Following a competitive procurement process, five bids were received. The selected contractor was the lowest compliant bidder meeting all technical and submission requirements.
Construction is expected to begin in early May 2026, with substantial completion anticipated by the end of October 2026.
Quote from Mayor John Logel
“The approval of the arena renovation is really about people. Our families, our youth, our seniors, our local teams, and everyone who calls this community home.
For years, this arena has been a gathering place where friendships are formed, kids learn teamwork, and neighbors come together to cheer, celebrate, and connect. By moving forward with this renovation, we’re making sure that this space continues to serve our community for many years to come.
This project will create a safer, more welcoming, more reliable, and more accessible facility for everyone. The renovations will provide a reorganization of the players benches, penalty boxes and times keeper box that will allow for better interaction during games. Just as importantly, we’re upgrading the building in a way that’s more energy-efficient and environmentally responsible, because taking care of our shared spaces also means taking care of our future.
We’ve heard from many of you throughout this process, and your voices helped shape this decision. At the end of the day, this isn’t just about renovating a building, it’s about strengthening our Township.
Thank you to Council, staff and community members for sharing their ideas, passion, and support. I look forward to seeing this space continue to bring us together.” – Mayor John Logel
In tandem with the contract award, Council has approved a financing strategy that balances fiscal responsibility with project certainty. The Township will pursue a combination of community fundraising and long-term debenture financing through Infrastructure Ontario, with approval secured for borrowing up to the full project cost if required.
To support cash flow during construction, the Township may temporarily utilize reserves, which will be replenished once debenture funds or donations are received.
The arena renewal project directly supports the Township’s strategic priorities, including maintaining critical infrastructure, enhancing recreational services, and strengthening community engagement.
Residents are encouraged to follow updates as construction progresses and to participate in ongoing community fundraising efforts in support of the project.
For meeting agendas and minutes of Council meetings, please visit https://alnwickhaldimand.civicweb.net/portal
Residents can also watch Council meetings on the Township’s YouTube Channel at: www.youtube.com/@alnwickhaldimandtownshipah6784
For more information, please contact:
Dave Dawson, CAO/Fire Chief
The Corporation of the Township of Alnwick/Haldimand
PO Box 70, 10836 County Rd 2 Grafton, ON K0K K20
T: 905-349-2822
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