An Ontario Trillium Foundation grant has been approved for the following purpose: Our organization (Alliston Curling Club), with a $98,600 Capital grant paid over 12 months, (starting March 31, 2023), this will address a community need by upgrading curling equipment and improving our kitchen and banquet facilities, to increase year-round club use for our members and larger community.
The Grant application was based on the following:
Our curling rocks, measuring devices, and scoreboards, (all aged 25 years plus), are at the end of their effective lifespan. New rocks and equipment will offer the Club at least 25 additional years of continued curling operations. Additional in-ice probes will increase ice monitoring capabilities to improve ice quality, optimize operations, and reduce operating costs. New appliances will be more energy efficient. Facing westward, the wood frame around the windows in the lounge is exposed to wind and rain, is now rotting. Replacing these windows will extend the life of the building and improve energy efficiency. Our banquet facilities will be upgraded with air purification equipment, new chairs and tables, and a new cooler (refrigerator) and dishwasher in the kitchen. The west-facing windows (with rotted wood frame) in the lounge will be replaced, and the ice shed access door will be widened and replaced to improve accessibility/functionality and to meet Code.
Our project will improve our curling facilities to attract new members, competitors, and community organizations interested in trying curling, and will improve our banquet facilities to increase all-year usability of the club. Through the Covid crisis, we recognized that we need to diversify and expand our operations. There is also a need in the community for available low-cost recreational and sport programming for all ages, and for attractive, functional banquet space, with an approved commercial kitchen. Proposed upgrades would modernize and ensure the longevity of our facility and improve energy efficiency, offering a venue for recreational activities (curling, cornhole, pickle ball, etc.) and community/family events (weddings, fundraisers, craft exhibitions, etc.).
We will provide more information about this grant as the season progresses. We will be putting together a project execution committee. If you are interested in helping out to lead a task (and fulfill your volunteer hours), please contact Anne or Susan.
Posted Dec 21, 2022 DB/SF
