Port Credit Arena Renovations

My first reaction on hearing that the Port Credit Skating Arena was going to be renovated was admittedly one of sadness and regret. I’d skated there as a child and in my teen years I taught skating there. And over the last 10 years I’ve watched my sons play in dozens of hockey games there from my youngest skating on the Blue (beginner) shift in the Paperweights program on through up to my oldest, now 16 and 6 foot 2 inches tall, roughing it up with his buddies in the corners during Midget level games. And I’ve watched my daughter learn to skate there in the Port Credit Figure Skating Club including participating in her first on ice pageant, dressed in a darling little frontier girl outfit (which, having 3 older brothers, she naturally detested). With so many fond memories, it was hard to contemplate any changes at all to a wonderful, unique old facility like that.

But then I saw the plans and I have to admit that I like what is being proposed. The designs have kept the original structure intact but have modernized the interior and integrated a new entranceway, balcony and recreation rooms into the South West corner in such a way as to flow with the land elevation but not disturb the look of the building. The concession area has been moved to the West side of the rink and now provides a much better view of the action on the ice for people who like to keep warm in the enclosed area during games. The lobby is spacious and if the finishing remains true to the drawings, the interior will have a much more modern look with lots of extra light coming in to brighten what is admittedly a somewhat dark arena. I’m not so fond of the players’ benches having been moved in front of the main spectator seating area but at least the seating appears to have been designed to retain its unique charm. The old fold-up two-person seats with backs are distinct among the Mississauga arenas and it appears as if this attractive feature is being sustained and upgraded.

I love how they are keeping the historical design of a Port Credit landmark intact and yet are integrating an open-area modern feel to give the structure a new lease on life. I look forward to many more years of enjoyment in the arena.

More info on Port Credit Real Estate at KatePeterson.ca