Work to prepare Rideau Canal Skateway ongoing, no set date for opening

While we don’t have a date for when the Rideau Canal Skateway might open for the season, we do know that ice preparation is underway.

The National Capital Commission (NCC) tells CityNews Ottawa crews began flooding the world’s largest skating rink last week and that conditions are being assessed daily.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience and look forward to the upcoming 54^th season of the Rideau Canal Skateway,” said NCC spokesperson Sofia Benjelloun. The NCC hopes to provide an update soon on a potential opening date.

Preparations for the 2024 season continue as usual with plans to offer “the usual Skateway amenities”. This would include the common food and beverage vendors, seating areas, heated change rooms and accessible washrooms, as well as skate and sled rentals.

Benjelloun does want to remind the public that the presence of work crews on the skateway is not an indication that the ice is ready, and you are asked to stay off as the surfaces remains unsafe.

In order for the 7.8 km skateway to open, the canal needs at least 30 centimetres of ice, which demands 10 to 14 days of weather between -10 C and -20 C.

Last year’s unseasonal warmth kept the skateway from opening for the first time in its history. The NCC spent nearly $1 million preparing for the opening, before announcing in late February it would remain closed.

~With files from the Canadian Press