The Nation Municipality

St-Albert, ONTARIO – The Nation Municipality, in collaboration with the St-Albert Community Group, officially inaugurated the new St-Albert outdoor rink on Sunday, February 23, 2025. This major addition to the local recreational infrastructure was celebrated in the presence of many residents, partners, and community leaders.

The festive event featured a variety of activities, including public skating, an official ribbon-cutting ceremony, and a friendly hockey game. Music, hot beverages, and hot dogs added to the day’s festivities, bringing the community together.

“We could not have chosen a better season to install and inaugurate these new boards. With one of the longest skating seasons we’ve had in many years, they are being fully utilized and allowing ice skaters and hockey enthusiasts to enjoy the season even longer,” said Danik Forgues, Councillor for Ward 3 of The Nation Municipality.

A Community-Driven Project
The total cost of the project amounted to $128,000. The Park Committee raised nearly $60,000, including $25,000 coming from the ‘‘Working Together on Local Projects” program from Desjardins. The Regional Community Investment Fund of the United Counties of Prescott and Russell (the ‘‘UCPR’’) also contributed $40,000. The Municipality covered the remaining cost, which was approximately $30,000.

“It’s impressive to see how the community came together to raise these funds, once again showing that when engaged residents take the lead, anything is possible.” added Mr. Forgues

The UCPR Warden, Mr. Yves Laviolette, highlighted the importance of the project: “I am proud that the UCPR contributed to this project, which modernized the infrastructure of this beautiful rink. This support was made possible thanks to the Regional Community Investment Fund. This Fund, created by the UCPR Council, aims to support the development of various community, cultural, and well-being initiatives across the region.”

A Tribute to Volunteers
Mr. Forgues extended a special thank you to the volunteers who played a key role in the project: “A huge thank you to Louise Cayer, who was able to recruit a fantastic team, including Anne Génier, Annick Desnoyers, Pascale Prévost, and all the others who worked with them to move this project forward. Thank you also to Julie Keravel, Chair of the St-Albert Community Group, for her involvement with the Park Committee.”

A Space for the Entire Community
The Nation Municipality thanks all those who have contributed to this project. This rink will become a gathering place where residents can stay active throughout the winter and strengthen community bonds.