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The Providence Rink opens. Sponsorship bid from Cianci Foundation rejected, cannot be revisited.
It’s called, “The Providence Rink” – and it’s official opening was yesterday, though it had a “soft opening” over the weekend.
RINewsToday’s queried the Mayor’s office about the status of the naming sponsorship, and if one would be announced, or if there would be none, following the rejection of The Cianci Educational Foundation offer of $200,000, which was the only offer, but $75,000 less than what the city said it was looking for.
Anthony Vega, Press Secretary responded with this statement: “The City’s goal is to secure the best possible deal to ensure this project is a strong revenue generator for the City. Sponsorship opportunities like this are rare in Providence, so we want to make sure we’re maximizing the opportunity. The City has not re-released the RFP at this time. The last bid has been rejected and cannot be revisited.”
Buddy Cianci was the idea-maker behind the ice skating rink back in 1998, and since his death the educational foundation has been focused on its mission to “assist those in Rhode Island that strive to achieve continuing education through college scholarships and additionally to further enhance the educational spirit of arts, economy, urban development, health care and politics through sponsorship support”.
Brad Turchetta, Cianci’s nephew and president of the foundation commented at the time of the offer that it would be “only fitting” to have the rink named after him. “It’s been such a success,” Turchetta said. “We thought it was a nice addition to his legacy.” Turchetta has said the foundation plans to submit another bid if the city opens up the process again.
City moves forward with name, logo, brand – The Providence Rink
The city appears to have the intent of moving forward with a branding image debuted – and their comment that they are not re-released the RFP at this time, and that the last bid has been rejected and cannot be revisited.
Mayor Brett P. Smiley, along with Providence City Councilor John Goncalves; Santa; Lillian Feinstein Elementary School Choir; Trinity Repertory Company actors; Roger Williams Park Zoo’s Red Panda mascot; and Providence community members participated in the official opening.
The opening of the Providence Ice Rink following a transformative $2.5 million renovation. Located in the heart of Downtown, the rink now features several key upgrades designed to enhance the skating experience, improve sustainability and ensure the space remains a year-round destination.
The improvements include a new cold floor, a state-of-the-art chiller system and clear dasher boards. These upgrades not only strengthen the rink’s infrastructure but also reinforce the city’s commitment to sustainability and climate resiliency.
“The Providence Ice Rink has long been a cherished destination for families and visitors and with these upgrades, we’re ensuring it remains a vibrant, sustainable part of downtown for years to come,” said Mayor Brett Smiley. “This investment reflects our commitment to providing a space where the community can come together to enjoy skating, seasonal events and all that Providence has to offer. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this new upgraded space will have across our Downtown community.”
The Providence Ice Rink will begin its programming for the winter season. Guests can enjoy ice skating from 10:00AM to 10:00PM daily until early March 2025, weather permitting. Ice bumper cars will be available Monday through Friday from 4:00PM to 8:00PM and weekends from 9:00AM through 10:00AM. Visitors are welcome to bring their skates or have the option to rent a pair on-site.
The Providence Ice Rink offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Daily public skating sessions are available, including special holiday hours for families and visitors to enjoy the ice. Skating lessons are offered throughout the season for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skaters and guests can also experience Ice Bumper Cars this season. The rink is also decorated with festive lights and music to celebrate the season.
For more information regarding Ice Rink admission, times and rental prices, visit theprovidencerink.com.
Last night I heard that COVID funds that could have been used for housing went to the ice rink. I do think public works are important, and actually without more expense we could get about 60 unsheltered people into Echo Village, which is unused because of red tape. The governor could get out his scissors and fix that if he wants to recognize that people without shelter in this weather really is an emergency. The new housing secretary, Deborah Goddard can show her effectiveness if she can get this done.