Mooseheads asking city for $1.6M to expand Dartmouth training facility
The Halifax Mooseheads have put forth a proposal to Halifax regional council for a $1.625 million expansion of their training facility at the RBC Centre in Dartmouth. The team’s general manager, Cam Russell, along with Elizabeth Powell from architecture firm Fathom Studio, presented the plans for a 4,700-square-foot addition at a recent standing committee meeting.
Russell emphasized the need for a larger and more efficient training facility, citing current challenges such as limited gym space and inadequate player amenities. He stressed that a state-of-the-art facility would not only benefit the Mooseheads but also help attract top talent, putting the team on par with NCAA teams and universities.
The proposed expansion includes a high-performance gym with hockey-specific training equipment, a turf training track, a shooting room for skill development, and player amenities such as a sauna, steam room, and recovery area. Additionally, a more spacious player lounge and a publicly accessible washroom are part of the plans.
The timeline for the project is estimated at around six months for design and eight months for construction. Russell explained that the Mooseheads are seeking funding from the municipality for the construction of the building shell, while the team would cover interior costs and remain the exclusive tenant of the facility.
While some council members expressed concerns about funding a facility for a privately owned franchise, Maggie MacDonald, the executive director of parks and recreation, recommended a staff report to assess the financial implications and potential cost recovery mechanisms.
Overall, the Mooseheads’ proposal aims to enhance their training facility to better meet the needs of the team and improve player development. The request for funding will undergo further review to ensure it aligns with the municipality’s goals and interests.
