Council reallocates $150,000 for the final upgrades to Kids Arena Fieldhouse

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Fort St. John council has authorized staff to take up to $150,000 from the city’s reserves to complete phase two of the Kids Arena Fieldhouse upgrades.

According to a report to council, the funds would allow glass upgrades around the pitch to be finished, and phase two of construction is “underway and near completion.” 

“The glass installation will provide a more positive viewing experience for those with accessibility barriers,” said the report. 

The phase two upgrades include removing old bleachers and dressing rooms and replacing them with new change rooms, storage rooms, and an office space on the south side of the pitch.

“Kids Arena Fieldhouse has been an amazing investment. I think the building has lasted a lot longer than expected, and it gets so much use out of it,” said Mayor Lilia Hansen. 

An order will be placed to have the glass purchased through Canoe Procurement and installed in 2024.

Staff also noted in the report that they want the work completed this year to allow public access to the area without interruption. 

“We would like to wrap up the project this year so we do not have to have an additional closure to the Kids Arena Fieldhouse in 2025,” said the report. 

Phase one of the upgrades was completed in 2023 and included accessibility upgrades, lobby washrooms, and kitchen upgrades.

Council awarded the third phase of construction back in January to WL Construction of Fort St. John.

The full report can be viewed below: