Inspection prompts $172,000 investment into new speed skating mats at Pomeroy Sport Centre

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — City council is replacing speed skating mats at the Pomeroy Sport Centre for more than $172,000 to keep the facility at a world-class level after concerns were raised by a safety inspector. 

During the July 14th regular council meeting, Mayor Lilia Hansen and councillors discussed the replacement of speed skating mats at the Pomeroy Sport Centre. 

A staff report explained to council during a visit from Speed Skating Canada in December 2024, an inspector recommended the existing mats needed an improved safety rating to “more effectively absorb impact energy in the event of a fall.” 

“[Replacing the mats] ensures that the Pomeroy Sport Centre remains a viable facility to host world-class speed skating events by maintaining the required safety standards for skating oval mats,” staff stated. 

Staff recommended the 115 new mats be sourced from World Mat Gym in Boucherville, Quebec for $172,462.50, which is below the $500,000 originally allocated for the project in the 2025 capital budget. 

As the current mats are custom and still usable for non-world-class speed skating activities, staff explained to council they were exploring ovals and communities who may be able to utilize the mats as an alternative to landfill disposal. 

After expressing their desire to see the mats repurposed in another community over the landfill, the council voted unanimously in favour of purchasing new mats. 

No information was provided on when the mats would be purchased or installed.