There was an audible sigh of relief from Salmon Arm and Shuswap Lake Agricultural Association President Phil Wright after receiving a report on the asbestos problem in the SASCU Indoor Memorial Arena.
Results of asbestos testing indicate the toxic material is not present in the arena’s main artificial-turfed playing area.
The issues with asbestos were limited to the rear storage and former Zamboni areas at the west end of the facility, and also to some piping and a square metre area of flooring in the front concession area.
The new washrooms, upgraded foyer and the soccer office are all clear of any asbestos problem.
“There is definitely some relief in that we are not going to have to replace the turf or any of that area,” says Wright.
The indoor arena has been totally closed off to public use until remediation work can be completed and inspected by Interior Health. The arena is used frequently by indoor soccer, archery and other recreational groups, in addition to being the main site of displays and vendors for the Salmon Arm Fall Fair.
The first step in the restoration process will be to have the exposed asbestos vacuumed out, followed by sealing off areas where the substance was found.
“Because most of the issue was at the rear, we can isolate the back part and seal off the walls,” says Wright. “That is quite doable.”
Wright says the association is now waiting for a plan from the restoration company as to the best options for fixing the issue and the projected costs. He is hoping this information will be available later this week so the association’s board can review it and make a decision on the required renovations.