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Why do warmer temps close Ice at Canalside?

Posted at 8:11 AM, Dec 03, 2015
and last updated 2015-12-03 08:11:48-05

Already this season, the Ice at Canalside has been closed one day because of warm temperatures. Officials estimate it was closed last season about a week thanks to Mother Nature.

Tom Dee, president of the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation, says things like the warmer temperatures Buffalo has experienced this season, as well as sun and rain, can make the ice melt, rendering it unusable.

There are other, warmer cities, like Austin, TX, that have outdoor rinks in operation all year round with no problem. Dee reminds us though that Canalside's rink was designed for winter-use only.

"It's all about your design parameters and we designed it around Buffalo weather," said Dee.

Dee says this is the largest ice rink in the state and because they don't need a more expensive year-round system, the venue doesn't have to charge people a lot cost to skate.

 

 
 

 

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