The Providence Rink is now open daily, from 10am to 10pm, weather permitting. The icy surface will remain in place until some time in March — the new improved cooling system should extend the season — then it’s on to roller disco! For now we are just calling the facility The Providence Rink or The City Center Rink. The five-year naming rights are still available. The ice bumper cars operate on more limited hours.
Shared Ice Bumper Car hours:
Monday-Thursday, 4pm to 8pm/ Friday-Sunday, 10am to 2pm.Full Ice Bumper Car hours:
Saturday-Sunday: 9am to 10am.
You will notice four tall pylons, connected by cables; they will be supporting the new shade sails to be installed in the spring. This canopy will protect the ice from weather and sun in the winter, while making the space more usable in the summer.
Parks Superintendent Wendy Nilsson is excited about the new shade sails being installed over the north end this spring.
The sails will stay up all the time and are meant to provide shelter from stormy weather and slough off rain and snow. “It is really spectacular, and it’s unique and custom built for Providence,” she said.
Politicians On Ice: There was an official dedication ceremony on Monday. Check Facebook for photos.
Daily skating 10am to 10pm, Providence Rink, 2 Kennedy Plaza, (directions)