Anticipation grows for Dunmore Outdoor Rink: will be well utilized

Folks gathered inside the partially-finished outdoor rink as a part of Dunmore Days.

By Anna Smith

Commentator/Courier

Having received funding for the second phase of the Outdoor Rink Project this summer, the Dunmore Community Association is pleased to say that plans are proceeding smoothly.

“So the project has been proceeding pretty much without a hitch. Every element timing wise has just fallen into place. As of right now, the project is awaiting the next stage,” said Jody Phillips, Secretary for the DCA. 

Presently, they plan to install bird netting in the ceiling, to prevent damage and mess caused by perching or roosting birds.

“So the netting is going up and then the electrical will be completed. And then we will be pouring the concrete skirts around the existing pad that’s there now,” said Phillips. And finally the rink boards will be installed. And then she’s ready for ice this fall. I mean, there’s other things that still have to happen, signage and, and things like that, but those are the big ones.”

The project was initially conceived of in March of 2021, and since then, the DCA has been overwhelmed by both community and sponsor support in creating this space for residents and visitors of the community.

“There’s been so much support from local businesses, from Cypress County. And from our gold level sponsor, EDF renewables, who has contributed a huge amount towards this project. And without their participation, the project would not have gone forward,” said Phillips. “The Dunmore Community Association is so grateful for the support that it has received to be able to accomplish a project of this magnitude in such a short amount of time. It’s still pretty unbelievable, and it’s the support that makes it happen.”

There’s a sense of excitement about social media, said Phillips, which has only grown since people were able to see the site up close during Dunmore Days.

“Once the facility is completed, it won’t only serve for skating in the winter,” said Phillips, “But, for community events, dances, all kinds of gatherings throughout the year, become our central hub, because we don’t have a hall.”