Update On Greenwich Ice Rink Replacement Project

GREENWICH, CT — The Rink User Committee for Design and Planning adopted a recommendation last week that Greenwich "should proceed with the planning and construction of a new Hamill Rink on the footprint of today’s Strazza Field, and a new Strazza Field on the footprint of today’s rink."

The recommendation came as a result of the Community Engagement Survey Report, which was conducted by Sports Facilities Advisory (SFA).

"Based on the results of the study, SFA believes that there is an opportunity and positive community support for the redevelopment of the Dorothy Hamill Skating Rink within Morlot Park," according to the executive summary of the survey results. "SFA recommends that the Town further explore any legal, environmental, or other constraints to reconfigure the park and coordinate the use of the existing Dorothy Hamill Skating Rink with limited closure of the ball field during construction."

The survey showed that 84 percent of respondents "overwhelmingly support" the plan.

The plan eliminates the cost, delay and complexity of siting, planning and building a second, temporary rink, the committee said in a newsletter update last week.

Additionally, according to the survey, 98 percent of respondents live within a zip code assigned to Greenwich, and 56 percent of respondents participate in programs and events at the Dorothy Hamill Skating Rink.

The current rink was built in 1972 as essentially a slab of ice, and then built-up in piecemeal fashion which has led to disrepair over the years to the point that it needs to be replaced.

First Selectman Fred Camillo's proposed fiscal year 2024 budget includes $950,000 for design and construction plans for a new rink.

In fiscal year 2025, $21 million is anticipated for construction. If this schedule is followed, the user committee said construction would commence in the fall of 2024, and residents would be skating at the new rink starting in the fall of 2025.

Camillo created the Rink User Committee for Design and Planning to help with the development of a new rink and to serve as a community liaison.

The committee meets monthly, and public participation is encouraged. Residents can contact the committee here.