A community-led effort is underway to transform the Teresa K. Hilander Community Ice Rink into a year-round winter recreation destination through a $3 million improvement project designed to provide reliable ice conditions regardless of weather.
The Village of Sister Bay and the Friends of the Sister Bay Ice Rink are planning a major overhaul of the facility. This overhaul would replace the current weather-dependent rink with a refrigerated skating surface capable of maintaining ice in temperatures as warm as 45 degrees.
The project comes as increasingly mild winters have shortened skating seasons and made it difficult to offer consistent recreational opportunities. A single warm day can quickly deteriorate the ice, making it difficult to schedule events or promote activities more than a few days in advance.
The centerpiece of the proposed project is the installation of a new refrigerated ice surface. The existing rink would be removed and replaced with a concrete pad containing underground chiller coils connected to a refrigeration system. The design would also include footings capable of supporting a future pavilion.
Additional improvements would include new hockey boards with a wood exterior, dark-sky-compliant lighting, fire pits, benches, outdoor tables and the purchase of a Zamboni to maintain ice quality. Plans also call for accessible walking paths surrounding the rink, allowing spectators and non-skaters to participate in activities without venturing onto the ice.
A third phase of the project would focus on expanding and modernizing the warming house and concession area. Proposed upgrades include additional seating, games, a fireplace and dressing rooms to create a more inviting gathering space during the winter months.
Village officials have identified the rink improvements as a priority within Sister Bay's capital improvement planning efforts. Work related to engineering, utility connections and refrigeration equipment continues as the project moves forward.
While some communities feature skating ribbons and others have built traditional recreational or competitive rinks, organizers envision the Sister Bay facility as a hybrid attraction that combines multiple skating experiences in a single outdoor venue.
The Friends of the Sister Bay Ice Rink plan to launch a fundraising campaign to help finance the project.
