Year In Review: Cornerstone project comes to fruition in Spruce Grove

Q: This project (Heavy Metal Place) has been in the works for quite a while. How exciting is it to see it come to fruition?

A: “We couldn’t be more excited for not only the community who has been following our progress and anticipating the great new amenities, but also for our staff and partners who have been putting in countless hours to get us across the finish line.”

Q: The facility obviously addresses the need for ice in the community, but it is so much more than an arena now that it’s all said and done. Can you talk about all of the different ways the facility will impact residents in the region?

A: “There is no doubt that it will address the need for ice in our community, which is something that was clearly identified as a top priority in many different forms of engagement. At the same time, we also heard clearly that we needed to make additional investments beyond recreation, most specifically in arts and culture. Being able to address a large portion of the Library’s growing needs and fantastic programming is a huge benefit to the facility.  Additionally, finding a permanent and separate space for the visual arts and the Allied Arts Council was a key focus from the beginning. Making an investment in the Black Box Theatre will further enhance cultural offerings in our community in addition to existing amenities like Horizon Stage and Columbus Park. The vision of having multiple amenities and a range of recreation and culture programming all in one facility exposes a wider audience to both, perhaps at the same time. We’ve often thought of a family coming to an early morning hockey practice but also having kids and adults enjoy other amenities such as the library for part of their time at the facility.  Lastly, having a facility that enables the City to host larger events provides great community exposure and additional economic opportunities."

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