Fort Smith’s arena is going through its latest extended closure after fresh problems emerged with its fire suppression system.
The arena has suffered multiple unexpected closures in recent years. For example, the ice plant failed repeatedly in 2022 and 2023, ruining at least half a season for town hockey players and skaters.
“This is the third consecutive year that the arena hasn’t opened on time – in early October – due to malfunctions of various systems,” one parent wrote in a letter to the town that they published online.
“These recurring maintenance issues, and the lack of priority in fixing them have created frustration in myself as a parent, as a taxpayer.”
The town, writing on its Facebook page, said it had tried to have the system ready for the fall but faced a series of obstacles.
Advertisement.
Advertisement.
“In July 2024, a pipe near the ice surface burst, leading to urgent repairs. Although we applied a temporary fix, another break occurred, revealing that the entire system needs to be replaced,” the town wrote.
“We brought in a local contractor to stabilize the situation and a specialized company was scheduled to begin repairs on September 16. However, they had to reschedule, pushing the start date to October 7 at the earliest. Unfortunately, the temporary patch failed again on September 23.
“We are currently seeking additional quotes and options to expedite the repairs and are hopeful that work can begin next week. Until the fire suppression system is fully repaired, we are unable to start making ice for the arena.”
Another parent expressing frustration in an online discussion about the arena wrote: “Every season, Fort Smith Minor Hockey registers an average of 90 kids. That’s 90 children who are excited, motivated, and ready to play. And yet, for the third year in a row, we’re left dealing with the same old issues – our arena in disrepair, our kids waiting for something as simple as a place to play.”
The town said its staff “understand how frustrating these delays are, and we truly appreciate your patience and support as we work to resolve this issue.”
There’s no timeline for the arena to be operational. The town said it would provide updates.
