City Outdoor Amenities Busy

Prince Albert, Sk. – The winter of 2020-21 has had many challenges for residents of the City of Prince Albert, but they have turned to the many outdoor amenities offered by the city in record numbers. All amenities abide to the Government of Saskatchewan health regulations surrounding COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the pandemic.

Little Red River Park has seen a dramatic increase in users since December. The Kinsmen Ski and Snowboard Centre has realized a 450% increase in users compared to a similar period in 2019-2020. As of January 11^th, the KSSC had 1035 visits compared to 228 over the same period last season. A solid snow base and mild temperatures also have contributed to the increase in attendance.

The Prince Albert Nordic Ski Club who voluntarily groom and maintain over 50 kilometres of ski and walking trails in Little Red River Park also have seen a dramatic increase in the number of club members. Users of the trails are asked to join the club via their website and this has resulted in a record 587 members of the club, an increase of 187 over the past month. The club has added new trails this winter on Kristi Lake on the northern part of the park.

Response to a Free Introductory offer on how to cross country ski and use of the equipment has had huge response. With COVID Protocols set in place, the Cross Country Ski Experience hosted by Fresh Air Experience and funded by Saskatchewan Lotteries filled all 80 registration spots within 5 days of it being offered, scheduled for Tuesday, January 19^th and Wednesday, January 20^th hosted at the Cosmo Lodge. 

Community Club Outdoor Rinks are always busy, but this season more people can be found skating at 9 rinks found throughout the city. The West Hill ODR is scheduled to open this weekend and Hazeldell ODR early next week, to join Crescent Acres, Crescent Heights, East Hill, Carlton Park, Midtown, Nordale and Parkland (operated by the PAGC) in offering free skating. The Community Club Outdoor Rinks are open 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. weekdays and Noon to 8:00 p.m. on weekends. As per regulations, there is a maximum of 30 participants at any given time.

“Even though these are trying times, we are seeing record numbers at our outdoor amenities which is encouraging,” said Jody Boulet, Director of Community Services. “It is great to see people getting outside and using the amenities the city has to offer. We encourage people to remain safe and social distance while using the facilities, but the fact they are keeping busy is positive.”

The 4 Community Clubs with indoor natural ice surfaces, East Hill, East End, West Hill and Crescent Heights will offer more free indoor skating over the next two weekends.

Saturday January 16^th
East Hill – Noon to 2:00 p.m.
Crescent Heights – 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Sunday January 17^th
East Hill – Noon to 2:00 p.m.
Crescent Heights – 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Saturday January 23^rd
East End – Noon to 2:00 p.m.
West Hill – 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Sunday January 24^th
East End – Noon to 2:00 p.m.
West Hill – 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Updates on these offerings and others available throughout the city are available on PA Together at Home webpage.

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For more information                           
Curtis Olsen                                                                Tim Yeaman
Sport and Recreation Manager                                 Parks Manager
City of Prince Albert                                                   City of Prince Albert
Phone: 306-953-4812                                                Phone: 306-953-4800
Email: colsen@citypa.com                                      Email: tyeaman@citypa.com