Belleville Multiplex Indoor Track

[Gazelle]

I am starting this thread to discuss and disseminate info regarding the indoor running track opening at the Belleville multiplex in early January (hopefully).  I have been in contact with the facilities manager of the Rec Dept, so I do not have any first hand knowledge or power.  I am just a curious fellow runner.  Others may have info as well that they would like to share.  I will email the manager later in Dec to get any updates and ask more questions.

Track stats: 
- 3 lanes, rubberized surface with heating loop as it sits above a ice rink
- inner lane ~164m (6.1 laps = 1 km), outer lane ~175m (5.7 laps = 1 km)
- ambient temperature: undecided
- access: swipe card
- speaker system for background music
- expected hours: 5:30 am - 11 am

There is much discussion on how to break up the hours so that groups with competing interests can have access.  The are looking at have separate walking and running times, and possible morning and evening run times.

There is also discussion on alternating the running directions but have not pinned down set days yet.  It is important alternate direction or one leg would become stronger than the other from constant inward pushing.

From reading the info the Rec Dept has posted online, it seems the access will be free.  You will need to pick up a Wellness Passport.  I hope there will be lockers somewhere to store outdoor clothes (bring a lock?).  I suspect if you want to use the showers afterwards, that may cost.  It would also be reasonable to expect that you wear indoor shoes only.  I need clarification on these points.

The track is available for private rental.  Does anyone know if any groups or run classes are being formed?

[Gazelle]

Just an update on a few questions I had about the multiplex.

Lockers will be available both sets of change rooms (B.Y.O.Lock), as well coin operated wallet lockers are to be installed.  Indoor shoes are expected to be mandatory.  And no extra cost for shower facilities!  The Quinte Wellness Passport will be free, however if you lose your passport, it will cost you an administration fee to replace it.

Still no answer on opening date - I hear the construction is having some difficulties.  Also no answer on the ambient temperature for the track so we'll know how to dress.  It sounds like it could be adjusted a bit after opening.  Stay tuned.

I don't know if anyone else had any concerns or questions about running at the multiplex?

[Sandy]

I've heard late March opening.

[Gazelle]

Nooooo!!   I'm hoping for a mild winter with frequent thaws if that is the case.  A late March opening is not as useful as the paths will be clearing by then.  Peter Lyng did not want to hint at any opening time.  I'm still hoping for a late Jan track opening.  You must have some inside source.

[The Moose1]

Wow, late march will put it 12 MONTHS late.

[QATS3]

I have heard March 19 as the date that programs will start running, but the facility may be open a bit earlier.
@ Moose, 12 months late, really isn't that bad ...they must have the same construction group as Loyalist uses, nothing gets done before it is at least 12 months late!!!!

[Gazelle]

Just called today and it seems March is the expected opening - likely later than earlier   
The Wellness Passport you need to access the facility cannot be picked up until close to the opening.

At least winter is co-operating so far for outdoor running but I hear it will be arriving a bit more this week.

Anyone want to start placing bets whether spring will arrive sooner than the multiplex opening? 
i.e. trails are clear of ice and snow, no further snowfall, and mild temperatures.  Assuming we really get winter.

[QATS3]

Next fall might be here before the multiplex is fully open!!!

[Gazelle]

Just called the Rec dept.  They are hoping for an April opening (unless they push it back, again).   

[Sandy]

Wow!!  It's about all I can say.

[Glo]

I had a tour approx 2 weeks ago, and there is still a lot of work to be done.  I saw the track, and I'm itching to get on it for a try.

Remember you have to register to use the track.

ps:  they predict that runners will 'push' out the walkers and they'll be walking around the arena again, and the track will be mainly for runners.


Glo

[Gazelle]

You may be right about the runners dominating the track, but perhaps not until next winter.  The only reason I want the track is to be able to open up the speed when it is snowy and icy outside.  If they are planning for a sometime in April opening, the weather outside will be nice.  Maybe I'll find myself there on a windy and rainy day.

[The Moose1]

You'll have a hard time "opening up the speed" on a 156m track with other people on it.  You'd be better off finding a big hill.
 

Mike