NORTH BAY MEMORIAL GARDENS

Audio system upgrades driven by performance and timeline.

Originally built in 1955, the North Bay Memorial Gardens underwent a major renovation in 2013. The plan included substantial improvements to the audio system in order to enhance the entertainment experience for the energetic fans of the newly arrived North Bay Battalion hockey team. In 2014 the OHL franchise relocated from Brampton to their freshly renovated 4500-seat home.

The audio system upgrade project was driven by two primary factors: achieving world-class performance on a strict, tight timeline. In order to facilitate a fast-track, turn-key installation, the project was undertaken as a design-build solution, with MacLean Media Systems taking on full responsibility of the system installation and project delivery – within a fixed budget and an immovable deadline.

A performance specification was developed for The City by Novita Techne Consultants which stipulated the required operating capabilities and which would provide the baseline for proof-of-performance testing to be conducted at the conclusion of the project. MacLean Media developed a system design which not only addressed the performance requirements, but could be built with equipment from manufacturers who were capable of meeting an extremely compressed design, procurement and installation window. "With only 4-weeks between contract award and the Battalion opening home game, the commitment of our partners and dedication of our crew was instrumental in the success of the project," explains project manager, Darrell MacLean.

As in many communities, the Memorial Gardens arena is the hub for many groups and teams. It was critical for North Bay that the arena be able to continue to offer its regular schedule and services throughout the project. As a result, the project plan had to coordinate around a busy, fully functional faculty, while also maintaining operational sound systems throughout the upgrade.