NEW: Mayor Smiley says rink sponsorship process will now reopen. Cianci Foundation will resubmit.

(See update in red, below)

After our story ran on the opening of The Providence Rink, Mayor Smiley appears to have changed his plan about securing a naming sponsorship.

In the original story, Anthony Vega, Press Secretary provided us with this statement regarding the Cianci Educational Foundation bid: “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.”

But today, in a Providence Journal story, the Mayor is quoted as saying this about plans to reopen the process: “We’re going to wait until the new year to start that process up again,’ said Smiley. ‘We’re optimistic, particularly now that it’s open and people can see how many people come and enjoy this space, that there’ll be more interest in being a name sponsor.”

RINewsToday has inquired of the Mayor’s office if it will accept a new bid from the Cianci Foundation and to clarify “cannot be revisited”. We will update the story when this information is received.

UPDATE: We received this statement from Anthony Vega: “As previously stated, the City has not re-released the RFP at this time. Once the process is reopened, the City will consider all submissions, including those from the Cianci Foundation, as long as they meet the necessary requirements.”

For now it’s called “The Providence Rink” – with a fresh new logo to start – and it’s official opening was Monday, though it has been open over the weekend before. It is estimated to have at least 5,000 visitors a day. The new renovations mean the cost of operating the rink plummets from over $100K a year to about $25K.

The Cianci Educational Foundation made an offer of $200,000, which was the only offer, but $75,000 less than what the city said it was looking for. 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 [Buddy]. “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.

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”.

City moves forward with name, logo, brand – The Providence Rink

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.” 

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.

This is a developing story.