Director says township rink lacks built-in refrigeration; downtown temporary rink under consideration

Grosse Ile Recreation Director Zayd told commissioners the current outdoor ice rink at Centennial Farms was built without a freezing element and becomes unsafe in sunny or variable weather.

"When that ice rink was built, it, you know, just to be blunt, it wasn't built properly. There was no freezing element put in," Zayd said, adding that exposed boards heat the surface and make the ice slushy and a potential safety hazard.

Commissioners said the rink’s condition and inconsistent weather use were the reasons staff did not fill it this season. Zayd said he has discussed alternatives with the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) director, including placing a temporary rink with a warming house on Macomb Street downtown; that location would be evaluated for seasonal use and possible conversion to other programming in warmer months.

Commissioners also discussed promoting safe skating on the pond at the farm when natural ice conditions permit, while noting staff must consider weather-dependent safety limitations. No formal action was taken; staff said they will continue planning and bring ideas for a downtown temporary rink back to the commission.

The discussion clarified that the existing rink’s structural limitations — specifically the lack of a built-in refrigeration/freezing system — are the primary reason for limited public use during warmer winter conditions.