“The plan will involve the examination of the department’s programming and facilities, ensuring both areas are in line with community expectations, and planning for future improvements to various city parks and facilities, including the Kettering Ice Arena,” Kettering Assistant City Manager Steve Bergstresser told the Dayton Daily News.
Credit: Contributed
Credit: Contributed
Earlier this year, Kettering officials were unsure if the compressors were going to start this season because there have been mechanical issues with them, Bergstresser said. The compressors functioned and “we were able to purchase repair parts for them. So, they are up and running. We’re having a good season so far,” he added.
Cost estimates show demolition of the ice arena and building a new multi-purpose athletic and recreation facility, including support space, ranges from $10.62 million to $12.44 million.
Tearing down the arena and building a new one would cost about $13.2 million to $15.46 million, Kettering records state.
The facility in “a position where replacement of several key components … is necessary, regardless of whether the facility remains an ice arena,” Kettering records show.
The roof is made of materials that are designed to keep the structure cool, Bergstresser said. It needs replacing, as do mechanical, electrical and plumbing elements, according to city documents.
A ballpark figure to replace the roof alone is in the range of $3 million to $4 million, Bergstresser said.
A parks and rec plan was last completed more than 15 years ago, he said. That was about the same time Kettering voters approved a 20-year bond issue to fund major improvements for recreational facilities, Montgomery County election records show.
The city will look to hire a consultant to complete the study. It will likely include conversations and engagement with residents, city officials, staff, and community groups “to prioritize needs and develop goals for programs and services … in relation to community needs and industry trends,” Bergstresser said.
About the Author
