Item - 2021.EY24.24

The Etobicoke York Community Council:

1.  Requested the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation to report to the June 22, 2021 meeting of Etobicoke York Community Council with an update on the state of good repair work scheduled for Rivercrest Rink, including a detailed explanation of the delays that have occurred over the last three years, and the feasibility of completing the work in advance of this upcoming Winter season.

At the start of the 2018/2019 Winter season, the residents of the Kipling Heights community in North Etobicoke (Kipling Avenue and Elmhurst Drive) raised concerns over the “temporary” closure of Rivercrest Rink.

Parks, Forestry and Recreation (PFR) staff were then engaged and had noted that the closure was due to a “major component failure”. As a result, the rink would not be operational for that winter season.

After a review was conducted by City staff, it was determined that the long-term solution would require a full rehabilitation of Rivercrest Rink. This would entail two phases, with Phase 1 focusing on the design and Phase 2 encompassing a Request for Proposal (RFP) and the rink’s construction. A new, safe and permanent facility was to be completed in time for the 2020/2021 Winter season.

Ultimately, Rivercrest Rink remained closed for the 2020/2021 Winter season. This further delay was caused by issues surrounding the lease agreement between the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) and the City of Toronto.

In the latest update from PFR staff, this project may even be further delayed beyond the 2021/2022 Winter season.

Skating rinks are an integral part of our community, providing youth, adults and families with an opportunity to participate in fun physical activity. After years of delay, residents deserve an update on whether or not Rivercrest Rink will finally be operational for the upcoming 2021/2022 Winter season.

This motion is requesting the General Manager of Parks, Forestry and Recreation to report to the next meeting of Etobicoke York Community Council with an update on the state of good repair work to Rivercrest Rink with any options to finalize this work in advance of the upcoming season.