[T]he ice skating rink on the Statehouse lawn has been approved for another year, just a month after a commission had spurned it. Gov. Phil Scott is getting credit for a role in the change of direction.
The Capitol Complex Commission, which oversees the aesthetic integrity of the Statehouse grounds, declined last month to continue the skating rink beyond its initial year over concern it didn’t complement the dignity of the historic building.
Supporters of the rink came back with a plan for decorations and different lighting, which the panel unanimously approved during a special meeting Friday.
“We credit widespread public support for making the governor aware of the rink’s popularity,” said Nate Hausman from the Put a Rink On It committee, which has spearheaded the project. Hausman said he believes the governor’s backing helped sway the commission.
Heather Shouldice, who chairs the state panel, also credited Scott. The way she sees it, “the governor’s support pushed the applicants to come back to the commission with a plan.”
Paul Carnahan, a member of the commission, described the modifications. “The only change to the design for this year are nicer lights that direct their beams onto the ice instead of sending light all over the place, and evergreen swags and wreaths on the street side of the fencing,” he said.
The rink will use the same fencing from last season, which one commissioner reportedly described as looking like a horse stable. But it will be decked with garlands to “improve the appearance of the fence for the skating season,” according to the revised proposal.
Shouldice cautioned that the approval for another season doesn’t mean the commission will allow the rink to return as is next year. Instead, a working group will be formed to present a proposal for a more permanent and appropriate design.
“The working group that is formed will submit a report next summer evaluating the pilot project, analyzing engineering and aesthetics, and looking at the finances necessary to make it a longer-term reality,” said Hausman.
The Put a Rink On It committee will work with the city and state to design a larger rink that can accommodate more skaters, with a fence that meets the commission’s aesthetic standards and compensates for a slope in the Statehouse lawn. The working group also will develop a funding plan for the construction and continuing operation of a more permanent rink.
“As far as we’re concerned, it’s great that there’s a willingness by the city and the state to explore long-term solutions for this project,” said Hausman.
Hausman said his group will have to raise roughly $8,000 to get the rink up this season.
The donation-funded project stayed under budget during its first year, according to an end-of-season report. Put a Rink On It is accepting donations through its fiscal agent, Montpelier Alive.
Skating enthusiasts now need the cooperation of the weather.
“We’re eyeing early in the new year for installation. Likely the first week in January, but it depends on weather,” said Hausman, “so we’re at the mercy of the weather gods to some degree.”