The City of Kingston has set up an artificial, synthetic ice rink behind city hall, in partnership with the Downtown Kingston BIA, in the hopes of making up for a mild winter season. Located behind city hall, by the amphitheater at Springer Market Square, the rink opened to the public on April 4 and is set to remain open until April 24. Skaters can access the rink daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. According to Marijo Cuerrier, executive director of the Downtown BIA, the decision to install the rink at Springer Market Square was strategic in order to attract a large number of visitors to try it. QR codes around the rink allow visitors to provide feedback on their experience.
While the synthetic ice rink will not reopen again later this year, there is potential for it to become a staple of the city’s springtime activities. Cuerrier mentioned that this past winter showed the potential for 20 weeks of ice skating at Springer Square, but due to the mild weather, they were only able to have 10 weeks. The Downtown BIA notes on its website that synthetic ice can be used in all seasons. Maintenance of the rink will involve specialized cleaning products, a mop or squeegee, and occasional lubrication to keep it in good condition.
The partnership between the City of Kingston and the Downtown Kingston BIA has brought about the opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy ice skating in a different setting than usual. By having the ice rink located behind city hall at Springer Market Square, the organizations hope to attract a larger number of people to try out this unique experience. Skaters are encouraged to take advantage of the rink while it is open until April 24, with extended hours from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
The presence of QR codes around the synthetic ice rink allows for direct feedback from skaters on their experience. This feedback can help the city and the Downtown BIA determine the success of the rink and whether it should become a recurring feature in future spring seasons. The decision to use synthetic ice, rather than traditional ice, ensures that the rink can be used in all seasons and requires specific cleaning and maintenance processes to keep it in good condition for public use.
As the city experiences a milder winter season, the installation of the synthetic ice rink provides an alternative way for residents to enjoy ice skating. By creating a temporary rink at Springer Market Square, the City of Kingston and the Downtown Kingston BIA are exploring new ways to offer recreational activities to the community. With the potential for the rink to become a regular feature in the springtime, visitors are invited to share their feedback through QR codes located around the rink, helping to shape future decisions regarding similar initiatives.
