The City of Ottawa plans to build a $1.25-million outdoor "Rink of Dreams" outside City Hall that would create a winter meeting place similar to Rockefeller Plaza in New York City or Toronto's Nathan Phillips Square.
The plan calls for an oval rink at Marion Dewar Plaza that would span more than 12,000 square feet, making it one of the largest outdoor rinks in the city. If council approves the project, the rink could be ready by next winter.
If approved, residents and tourists will be able to lace up their skates annually to take a skate on the rink from November to March. The area will be used as a community space during the spring and summer months.
The Sens Foundation plans to contribute $1 million towards the design and construction of the rink, while the city will commit $250,000 towards the project. A portion of the proceeds from the Hockey Canada Foundation Gala and Golf Tournament held in June will also be donated.
"It's a great investment for the city," said mayor Jim Watson. "If we can get a $1.2 million dollar facility for $250,000 that's a good return on investment."
Criticism is coming from residents that the Rideau Canal provides plenty of skating opportunities already, but Senators president Cyril Leeder said this rink will provide consistency.
"If you talk to hoteliers the only downside to the Rideau Canal is that it's not reliable," he said. "This will certainly extend the skating season for our tourists and our community."
If council approves the plan, the rink could open by mid-December.
With a report from CTV Ottawa's Karen Soloman
