Mobile ice-making unit to be used at Kew Gardens outdoor rink after mechanical issue delays opening until early next week
By ALAN SHACKLETON
A delay in the ice going into the outdoor skating rink at Kew Gardens in the Beach raised concerns from some residents earlier this week.
Most of the City of Toronto’s outdoor skating rinks opened last weekend, but that was not the case at Kew Gardens due to some issues with the ice-making equipment.
Apparently as city staff were preparing to start making the ice for the Kew Gardens rink, a mechanical problem with the rink’s chiller was identified and after analysis the unit was found to be beyond repair.
However, crews have been working hard this week to set up a portable chiller system to allow the rink to have ice this skating season. Opening day is now anticipated to be on Monday, Dec. 8, with ice being made over this coming weekend.
The ice will be made for now with a rented mobile ice-making unit.
Beaches-East York Councillor Brad Bradford said he is aware of how much the Kew Gardens skating rink means to Beachers during the winter.
“I know how much families look forward to getting out on the ice each winter, so even a short delay is disappointing,” said Bradford in a statement to Beach Metro Community News. “City staff have assured me they have worked to find a solution to this mechanical issue as quickly as possible.”
Currently, the city is considering a number of improvements to Kew Gardens park (2075 Queen St. E.) including a bigger rink and new skating trail.
“I’ve been working to improve the Kew Gardens facilities, including a larger rink and a brand-new skating trail,” said Bradford. “Consultations are going on right now, and I’ll be pushing to move ahead as quickly as possible.”
For information on the consultations regarding improvements to Kew Gardens park, please go to https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/planning-development/construction-new-facilities/park-facility-projects/kew-gardens-improvements/.
