The Town of Drumheller is making substantial progress at the former curling rink site, marking a significant milestone in the town’s ongoing revitalization efforts.
Completing the building’s demolition signifies a new chapter for the community, as plans for the site’s restoration are now in motion.
The former curling rink, a Town-owned building with a rich 70-plus-year history, faced significant challenges in early 2022. Despite potential costly repairs, it was clear the aging structure would offer only a limited extension to its lifespan. After careful consideration and in the community’s best interest, a decision was made to move forward with the demolition and pave the way for redevelopment.
On April 16, 2024, Town Council awarded Roadbridge Services the contract for the demolition of the building, which includes vital asbestos abatement, for $265,853.95. Due to the building’s age, a Phase 2 Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) was conducted, revealing soil contamination. This led to the necessity for asbestos and mould remediation and extensive environmental testing.
These actions highlight the Town’s commitment to a safe and sustainable restoration process. The demolition project budget was $500,000, and to date, the work completed is under budget.
Demolition of the curling rink aligns with the Town’s Downtown Area Revitalization Plan (DARP), a visionary initiative aimed at rejuvenating the heart of Drumheller over the next 15 years. As part of this strategic plan, the former curling rink will give way to a dynamic public connector, extending Centre Street for pedestrians into the park and towards the river, enhancing the town’s cultural and recreational landscape.
The former curling rink site is undergoing regular environmental monitoring, emphasizing the Town’s commitment to transparency and safety. Fencing will remain in place until the end of September.

Higher than-expected oil prices are pushing the Alberta forecasted surplus to $2.9 billion at the end of 2024-2025.
The government presented its First Quarter update on Thursday, August 29. This report showed the forecasted surplus $2.6 billion higher than expected.
​​ With a stronger surplus than projected at budget, the government continues to invest in the needs of Albertans while managing its debt and saving for the future. The government’s plan to pay down debt, paired with responsible spending, will save Albertans in the long term and sustain vital programs for years to come, said a release.
“People across the country see a bright future for Alberta, and they continue to come here in record numbers. While this population growth is creating challenges and putting pressure on our hospitals, schools and other services, our prudence and discipline are helping to manage these challenges,” said Nate Horner, President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance.
It does note, the province’s economic growth and outlook brings some challenges as the population is set to surge 4.6 per cent in 2024.
On the revenue side, it is forecasted at $76.2 billion, up $2.7 billion from Budget 2024. Personal income tax revenue has increased $458 million to $16.1 billion, reflecting population growth and gains in Alberta’s labour market.
Non-renewable resource revenue is forecast at $19.8 billion, up $2.5 billion from budget due to higher oil prices, a narrower light-heavy differential,

higher oil production and a lower exchange rate.
Other tax revenue is forecast to be $38 million down from budget, in part because of less tobacco tax revenue and the government’s policy to limit insurance premium increases for good drivers.
They are also seeing expense increasing $101 million from Budget 2024. Operating expense is up by $195 million, mainly due to $125 million more to support enrolment growth and inflation pressures in education.
Disaster and emergency spending to date is $573 million. This has been allocated to disaster and emergency spending from the province’s contingency fund. This includes $550 million to fight the wildfires, $10 million to match donations to the Canadian Red Cross, and $13 million for emergency evacuation payments to evacuees.