Skaters itching to get out on an outdoor rink in Red Deer will have to keep waiting.
The opening of neighbourhood ice rinks has been delayed due to the emergency snow plowing response following the massive snowfall in the area over the last month.
“Parks and recreation crews that typically prepare the outdoor rinks are being diverted to assist with the plowing of roadways, alleys and sidewalks across the city,” said Recreation, Parks and Culture manager Shelley Gagnon. “While we regret that we cannot have all outdoor rinks up and running over the next week, we will do our very to ensure they are prepared and ready to use for the holiday season, weather permitting.”
The city has seen more than four times its average snowfall since early November.
The Recreation Centre’s speedskating oval (located next to the Golden Circle) and Bower Ponds will be prepared and maintained to accommodate events and Christmas activities scheduled to take place on these ice surfaces in the coming month.
All other outdoor rinks will be prepared once the citywide emergency snow removal process wraps up.
The city reminds users of Bower Ponds and the outdoor speedskating oval that hockey sticks and pucks are not permitted and a CSA-approved helmet is recommended for all ice activities.
For more information, visit www.reddeer.ca or call 403-342-8238.