The sport of curling could be making a comeback in the Blue Mountains.
Mike Hammond is a member of a local group trying to re-establish a curling club in the municipality.
Hammond says they’ve conducted an informal survey in the community and gathered the names of 350 people who say they are interested in joining a club.
He says demographics are changing in the community, with more young retirees moving to the area.
Hammond points out that curling was popular in the Blue Mountains in the 80’s and 90’s – but membership declined and costs rose for maintaining a clubhouse.
However, he says they are confident there is enough interest again to sustain a new clubhouse.
What used to be the old club is now a parking lot and Hammond says they hope to build a new one at the former Beaver Valley arena site at a cost of 3 million dollars.
Hammond says they’re asking council to help cover the price at no cost to the taxpayer.
They want council to consider using development fees for 2.5 million dollars of the project and will apply for grants for the remaining cost.
Hammond says once it’s built the club will be self-sustained through memberships and fundraising.
The new clubhouse would feature 4 curling sheets, a viewing area, a lounge and kitchen, washrooms, and a parking lot.
The infrastructure and recreation committee will consider the group’s proposal at their meeting tonight.