Federal budget money could be a power play for this aging hockey arena

The proposed federal budget includes $750 million to improve ice rinks across Canada, which could include ones like this in St. John's. Barnes Arena was built in the 60s. Most of the rinks in the city were built around the same time. So, I mean, plant lives, building lives are 20, 30 years. We're well past them. Um, very. They're in a constant state of repair and maintenance. And the guys do a good job of it, but it does take its toll. I mean, funding like this that's been announced here today is extremely important for aging facilities like these. Arenas are social hubs in all corners of the province. Avery says working to improve them is important for sports and community building. Things like the roof, things like the ice plants, these things are the first things that really cause the facility to shut down. If we can get ahead of that and get some of that fixed, we can see hockey here for another 20, 30 years for sure. It's not yet known when the rollout of this funding will begin or what it will look like. What could be allocated to rinks in this province or which spaces will be improved are yet to be decided. St. John's East MP Joanne Thompson says She's dedicated to making sure ice rinks in Newfoundland and Labrador are supported. Start to look at your infrastructure. If this is a program that is appealing to you, reach out. I'm happy to have conversations. The minute the portal opens, I will let you know. So what I will do once the particulars around the funding streams come out and they're public, I will absolutely send it forth across the community. The budget has yet to pass in the House of Commons. But those who use rinks in this province say that boost, if they get it, would make a difference. Madison Taylor, CBC News, St. John's.