Parks staff reports strong winter season at Sylvan Hill; rinks, ramps and trails operational
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Summary
Parks staff reported Sylvan Hill was able to make snow and remain open through the Christmas break, noted a tow-rope problem that was fixed, described work to rebuild skatepark ramp sections donated by grieving families (with a future plaque in honor of Tyler and Carter), and said three outdoor ice rinks and warming houses are open; staff will provide revenue figures at the end of the season.
Jamie, parks staff, told the committee Sylvan Hill had an "extraordinary year so far," with successful snowmaking and enough activity to keep the hill open through the Christmas break despite long lines; staff repaired a tow rope that failed on New Year's Eve and expect to report revenue figures at the end of the season.
Jamie said sections from the Oak Island Skatepark are being taken into parks' shops for rebuilds this winter and then reinstalled in spring; the parks department received donations from families and plans to place a small plaque on the ramps in memory of two regular users, Tyler and Carter.
Outdoor ice rinks and warming houses are open, ski and snowshoe trails are operating, and both hockey arenas are active. Jamie noted persistent ice under snow on sidewalks, trails and roads and said staff are monitoring snow-removal needs.
Speaker Veil asked how the Tom Field rink came to be open and recommended promoting the unexpected opening on the city's social channels so residents know the warming house and facility are available. Jamie acknowledged the suggestion and said he would promote the opening.
Next steps: staff will provide a season-end revenue update and continue ramp rebuilds and rink operations; no formal action was taken.