Due to the unseasonably warm weather and long-range forecast, all 48 outdoor ice rinks in 23 Minneapolis parks have closed for the season. They were originally scheduled to close Feb. 16 to prepare parks for spring activities.
This winter proved to be most cooperative for city skaters. With temperatures rarely topping the freezing point, ice conditions remained ideal throughout the skating season until rains and warm weather this week took their toll.
Because most park rinks are located atop athletic fields; prolonged usage could be detrimental to field conditions and cause delays and added expense in making fields ready for spring and summer athletic programs.
BROOMBALL: If conditions allow, we will attempt to save the broomball rinks for the playoffs. This will be determined on a location-by-location and day-by-day decision.
For those not ready to kick off their skates; the MPRB operates two indoor skating facilities: Parade Ice Garden and Northeast Ice Arena. Parade Ice Garden offers public indoor skating and group rentals; call 612-370-4846 for more information. Northeast Ice Arena is available for group rentals only; for information call 612-782-2123.
