Warmer temperatures in the forecast may force the Stuart Park skating rink to close.

Warmer temperatures in the forecast may force the Stuart Park skating rink to close.

Stuart Park skating coming to an end

City says afternoon closures may occur with warmer weather and time ticking on how long ice rink may stay open

Skating season at Stuart Park is coming to a close, according to the City of Kelowna.

Warmer daytime temperatures in the forecast indicate the outdoor rink could be closing within the next week. Until then, the rink will continue to be open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., ice maintenance and weather permitting.

“The arena attendants do their best to extend the outdoor skating season, but the rising daytime temperatures and radiant heat from the sun do make it a challenge to maintain the ice,” said Steve Fagan, arenas and stadiums supervisor. “We don’t have an exact closure date yet, but it could be sometime next week.”

At this time of year, the public can expect afternoon closures with the skating surface reopening in the evening.

Residents are encouraged to check rink conditions before heading out using the still-image web cam at kelowna.ca/recreation. If the rink is closed, a yellow caution sign will be visible in the middle of the rink.

Skate rentals are available daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. until the end of skating season. The public is required to abide by the rink regulations as posted on the website as well as on signs surrounding the rink and are encouraged to wear helmets.

Kelowna Capital News