Brookline Residents Invited to First Public Meeting on Ice Rink Feasibility Study

he Brookline Department of Public Works, Parks and Open Space Division is developing an initial design concept and feasibility study for a renovated or new ice skating rink facility in Brookline.

BROOKLINE — The Brookline Department of Public Works, Parks and Open Space Division is developing an initial design concept and feasibility study for a renovated or new ice skating rink facility in Brookline.

This study is intended to develop preliminary designs, assess site layout and circulation, engineering considerations, traffic and parking, prepare preliminary cost estimates, and develop maintenance and operating costs for the facility.

The first virtual public meeting will take place at 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 24 via Zoom. To access the meeting, click here. The Town will discuss project goals, community needs, existing facility conditions, and activity and programming parameters. This will serve as the first of four public meetings led by an Ice Skating Rink Task Force appointed by the Park and Recreation Commission.

The study is being initiated by the Park and Recreation Commission and town staff as a result of a permanent failure of the mechanical refrigeration system at the current facility at Larz Anderson Park, which is now operating seasonally on temporary refrigeration units.  It is unclear how many seasons the town can expect to open the facility under the current conditions.

“Larz Anderson Park is a remarkable and unique landscape that serves the community year-round for both active and passive recreation,” Commissioner Erin Gallentine said. “The Jack Kirrane Ice Skating Rink at Larz Anderson Park is a beloved amenity that has been celebrated for generations as a unique outdoor ice skating destination.”

The Brookline Ice Skating Rink Recreational Facility Preliminary Design Services Request for Proposals went out to bid in April 2021.

Interviews were completed through the Town’s Purchasing Division by a Selection Committee consisting of Parks and Recreation staff, commissioners and task force members during the month of April and into May. The bid was ultimately awarded to a team assembled by Klopfer Martin Design Group (KMDG).

The project team includes JLG Architects, a nationally recognized architecture firm specializing in sports facilities — particularly ice rinks — for both municipal and institutional sports clients. In addition, KMDG will work with McMahon Associates on transportation studies and Jennifer Schultz of Sullivan & Worcester regarding project permitting.

“Our approach to design is rooted in collaboration, research, and a respect for the site and for the people who will use the space,” Mark Klopfer of KMDG said.

“We are all disappointed that the refrigeration system failed, but we look forward to working with our Ice Rink Task Force, Park and Recreation Commission, and the public on a feasibility study to reimagine an ice skating facility and destination that serves the community,” said Parks and Open Space Director Alexandra Vecchio.

All are encouraged to attend! Please register in advance via the following link: https://brooklinema.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_WcK6HhzBRa2uFVRudojAPg

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