Laval citizens advocate for Richard-Trottier Arena preservation

Citizens in Laval are calling for the preservation of the Richard-Trottier Arena in Fabreville following a public consultation regarding the facility's future. The arena has been closed since 2018 due to renovation efforts intended to replace ammonia cooling systems, but it never reopened because of severe structural issues.

Philippe Morin-Gendron, director of the City of Laval's buildings and parks service, reported significant cracks and sinking in the concrete slab caused by water accumulation in the technical space beneath it. The city noted that temporary solutions to stabilize the slab were impossible. Repairing and upgrading the facility to meet modern ice installation standards could cost approximately $30 million and require a 20% expansion of the building.

As alternatives to the arena, project coordinator Marie-Ève Alder presented various landscaping options, including a health trail, an inclusive playground, a sensory garden, and a didactic path. A 180 m2 multipurpose room was also among the discussed options.