Wednesday afternoon announcement at site of the proposed rink
WHITE PLAINS – Westchester County Executive Robert Astorino has proposed converting the reflecting pool at the base of the Kensico Dam into an ice rink during the fall and winter months.
He said with work underway to restore the pool’s cascading fountains that shoot water 30 feet in the air from spring to fall, the addition of skating would transform the park into a year-round destination.
The plan would include a regulation-size hockey rink as well as a one-third mile straight away and loop configuration around the perimeter that would be geared for novice and recreational skaters with an additional section for lessons.
“The rink opens a gateway to winter recreation at the county’s most convenient park,” said Astorino. “Ice skating at Kensico Dam Plaza, which is Westchester’s Central Park, will provide fun, healthy and affordable activities throughout the winter months, a time when families so often are eager to get their kids out of the house.”
The New York Rangers have committed to holding clinics at the new rink in Valhalla, which could be completed by November of next year, in time for the 100th anniversary of the dam.
The rink idea grew out of plans by Astorino, already approved by the county board of legislators, to refurbish the reflecting pool at the foot of the dam, including the deteriorating fountains, which have been shut down for 10 years.
