The Schenley Park Skating Rink will not open this season because of delays installing a new chiller system, Pittsburgh officials announced this week.
The ice skating rink is expected to reopen for the 2024-25 season.
Pittsburgh’s Department of Public Works last year began installation work on the vital refrigeration system, but several setbacks are delaying completion of the project.
Among the hiccups: a broken pipe, the need to replace a sump pump and delays in obtaining parts.
The project was funded with $1.3 million in money collected through the city’s controversial parks tax.
City officials had initially hoped to open the popular skating rink — which has been a staple for city residents and visitors since 1975 — in November, when the rink’s season typically begins. That date was pushed back to January amid the project complications.
Officials now anticipate that work should be completed in April.
CitiParks Director Kathryn Vargas acknowledged the news is “disappointing,” but said the work being done now will ensure “we can continue to provide skating for years to come.”
The city still is hosting two of its annual Schenley Park Skating Rink events, though in different formats, this year.
The Mascot Skate will be rebranded as Mascot Madness. The event, which typically takes place on the ice rink, will still be held at the Schenley skating facility. It will feature a meet-and-greet with local mascots, games, prizes, face painting, a balloon artist, caricatures and an ice sculpture.
The event is slated for Saturday, Feb. 10 from 1 p.m. till 3 p.m. Admission costs $5, $4 for seniors and veterans. Tickets will go on sale online beginning Tuesday, Jan. 16.
The city’s Valentines on Ice event, which includes chocolates, raffles, roses and ice skating, is moving to Hunt Armory on Emerson Street in the city’s Shadyside neighborhood. It’s scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 14 from 8 p.m. till 10 p.m.
The Schenley Park Ice Rink will celebrate its 50th year next January.