Perth Mayor John Fenik is hoping for cold weather in the weeks ahead – the conditions needed to make sure a new outdoor rink is successful.

The town will operate a “skateway” on the Little Tay Canal between Gore and Drummond Streets during the month of February on a trial basis.

Fenik told councillors at a Jan. 14 meeting that the skateway is a “brilliant opportunity” to help make the town a four-season destination for visitors. “I’m hoping to strap on the skates and kick that rink off,” said the mayor. “It will be a tourist attraction.”

In a report to councillors, Perth Director of Community Services Shannon Baillon said town staff will regularly flood the skateway with water pumped from the canal, check the ice daily and provide snow removal, signage and communications during the 30-day trial period. This will require an estimated 100 hours of staff time.

“We’ll keep track of what it takes, and the time and effort there,” said Baillon.

In a written report Baillon said, “The section of the Little Tay Canal between Gore and Drummond Streets would be an ideal location for a skateway in the winter due to its location and the beautiful background of Perth’s heritage stone buildings.”

Communication regarding current conditions and when the skateway is open to the public are to be communicated through the town’s social media and website at www.perth.ca. Signage indicating that the skateway is open would be placed at the gate on the deck of the adjacent business, Mex & Co.

Article by Chris Must