skating rink with hockey goals

Carrier Park's skating rink prior to catastrophic damage from Helene floodwaters and debris.

Happening Now

Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) has twice issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for construction administration, but did not receive the minimum number of required responses. Multiple potential bidders expressed concern about a construction timeline that included winter months, so the RFQ will be posted again in the spring.

Background

After the popular skating rink located in Carrier Park experienced significant damage from Tropical Storm Helene, APR has submitted plans to install a temporary rink in a municipal parking lot on Asheland Avenue next to the ART Transit Station. The goal is to provide a functional and accessible space for the community that mirrors the previous amenity as closely as possible while a permanent rink is built. The temporary rink will be available for recreational use, as well as for hockey competitions and practice.

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Project Prioritization

City of Asheville projects are evaluated and prioritized based upon many criteria including public safety, economic growth and sustainability, affordable housing and community development, quality of life, and availability of funding sources, among others.

APR has looked for ways to temporarily replace public recreation spaces impacted by Tropical Storm Helene, particularly if no alternatives exist in other locations within the city. Please note, the temporary rink isn’t a “pop-up” and will remain in place until a permanent rink is built.

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Determine Funding Sources

Funding has been identified using grants and private donations.

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Project Design

Following site selection, APR project managers created a design incorporating environmental compliance, building codes, cost estimation, available space, and other requirements.

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Project Construction

The City of Asheville posted a advertisement for bids on July 22 and will select a construction firm based on responses. Once the construction contract is approved by City Council, construction can begin.

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Project Completion

A temporary skating rink opens on 50 Asheland Avenue and will remain open until a permanent rink is built.

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Maintenance and Operation

APR executes a maintenance and operation plan to protect this new community asset.

Contact Information

Al Kopf, Project Manager

Asheville Parks & Recreation

akopf@ashevillenc.gov

(828) 259-5800