The Ashland Parks and Recreation Department (APRD) announces that the Ashland Rotary Centennial Ice Rink will not open for the 2025-2026 season due to continued delays in finalizing a required permanent structure permit. This issue cannot be resolved in time for the upcoming holiday season.
Historically, the Ice Rink canopy was classified as a “temporary structure,” raised every winter and lowered every spring. To realize cost savings and extend the life of the fabric cover, APRD chose this year to transition the canopy to a permanent structure that will be up year-round. As a permanent structure, it is required to go through a more robust review under the State building code than it had previously under the temporary operation permit.
As a part of the permitting process, an engineer must evaluate the structure, canopy and footings to verify that they can withstand specific scenarios including wind events, earthquakes and snow loads. In addition, an architect is responsible for conducting a code analysis to ensure the structure is accessible, has appropriate egress, and meets fire and life safety provisions for the protection of the public. Parks Director Rocky Houston has been working with the canopy manufacturer to conduct the analyses and prepare the required paperwork. However, due to recent staffing and layoff changes at the manufacturer, the engineering analyses were not completed in time to safely and legally open for the 2025-2026 season. APRD has shifted to working with a local engineer to conduct the analyses.
“We share the community’s profound disappointment that the Ashland Rotary Centennial Ice Rink will not open for the 2025-2026 season,” stated Parks and Recreation Director Rocky Houston. “The rink is a cherished winter tradition for the Ashland Community. This closure is the result of an unforeseen permitting delay, stemming from our necessary transition to a permanent structure for cost savings and longevity.”
“While this is an unfortunate setback, we are working diligently to finalize the paperwork required for a permanent structural permit. Our top priority is ensuring the canopy meets all State Building Code requirements, and we are committed to reopening the rink in the future.”
The project is still moving forward and once finalized, will ensure the canopy structure meets all applicable State Building Code requirements for permanent use. The ice rink area will remain closed to the public until the permit is issued.
For more information visit ashlandoregon.gov/IceRink. We are Better Together!
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