Orangeville's popular indoor walking track is set to re-open within the next week, following its closure due to the presence of mould in the two arenas at the Alder Street Recreation Centre.

The Town closed the two arenas and walking track after testing confirmed the presence of mould. The mould was discovered as part of a routine inspection and upon confirmation by environmental consultants the two ice pads and walking track were closed immediately as a safety precaution.

The red rink re-opened Sept. 12 after a report from Environmental Services Group deemed it safe for occupancy. MTE Consulting of Kitchener provided a second opinion, at that time, confirming the analysis.

Green rink, and the walking track above it, remained closed while extensive remediation work was carried out in containment areas along the exterior walls. Air quality tests have recently been taken on the walking track and in the restaurant area, and the Town is now waiting for the analysis as it prepares to re-open the track.

Prior to opening, Town staff will be installing a temporary drywall covering along the east and north walls and completing a thorough cleaning of the area. The walking track is expected to re-open in a few days.

No further remediation or repairs will be undertaken until the spring, says Parks and Recreation Director Sonya Pritchard. The Town is continuing to assess the cause of the mould and solutions to ensure the problem does not reoccur.

Town officials have had conversations with the builder and legal counsel with respect to this matter.

"Every effort is being made to ensure Orangeville taxpayers do not foot the bill for this unexpected expense," Mayor Rob Adams said.