04/26/2023
Dear Friends,
It is with great sadness that we inform you that the board of directors for the Columbia Chamber of Commerce has made the difficult and necessary decision to permanently close the Columbia “Ice” Skating Park. The exceptionally wet winter caused us to cancel and close numerous operating days in December and most days from January through March. Even on the few occasions when we could open during light or intermittent rain, only a small number of skaters were willing to brave the elements and come out to skate. Ultimately, the continuous rain and snow compelled us to close the rink indefinitely until the weather improved. Unfortunately, this closure lasted longer than our financial capacity allowed, considering the ongoing operating expenses and loss of income due to the extended shutdown. It would require significant funds to recoup the lost income and reopen the rink again with the next insurance payment now due, reserves needed for staff payroll, and planned improvements to support year-round operation including the addition of roller skating during the spring/summer months and installing shade cloth over the rink.
Therefore, the rink will be dismantled and sold with the proceeds being deposited into the Chamber account and used to support our annual events in Columbia, including the Winterfest event that we hope to start in 2024/25. While we are saddened by having to close the rink, we are delighted that over 3,000 skaters had the opportunity to enjoy skating in Columbia and visiting the historic district! We would like to thank our sponsors and donors for their contributions and support of this project to promote Columbia and raise funds for our Chamber events to draw visitors, bolster commerce, provide a new community activity, and support local businesses. We will continue to recognize our sponsors for future events that are supported by the proceeds from the sale of the rink. We also thank all the volunteers who helped plan, install, promote, and manage the rink. Most importantly, we thank everyone who came to skate and visit Columbia!
Warm regards,
The Columbia Chamber of Commerce
April 26, 2023
