The new synthetic ice surface is now in place at Rotary Plaza in front of the Credit Union CUplex.
Leisure Services Director Bill Samborski shared that news with city councillors at the Planning Committee meeting Monday at City Hall, as well as with the Leisure Services Committee held earlier in the day at Don Ross Centre.
Signage is up at the location as well, and while the surface area is currently roped off, there are plans to put up a more permanent railing or fence around the surface.
Some work was still being done at the location. Crews were seen there Wednesday morning with the synthetic ice surface covered in snow following the recent snowfall.
The synthetic ice is designed for general skating. The middle portion of the surface is blocked off to discourage hockey from being played. There are also restrictions on such items such as hockey sticks.
Samborski said users will find it unique. He said people from the parks department tried out the surface and the better skaters were really flying out there. They “skated like the wind,” he said.
Moreover, it will be available for use year round. As cool as it looks now, said Samborski, “it will be even better come July.”
It was paid for by a grant from BATC Community Development Corporation for $62,000. It is open to the public and free to use.
The surface is expandable and that can be done over time. Samborski said they should be able to get 20 years of life out of the surface.
Also, skates will be available at a charge of $2 per rental, although users are free to bring their own. SportChek has donated 50 pairs of skates that will be available for use on the synthetic ice. Further donations of skates are welcome.
