Brookline Eyes Redesign Of Jack Kirrane Ice Skating Rink

BROOKLINE, MA — The Brookline Department of Public Works, Parks and Open Space Division is hoping to give the ice skating rink at Larz Anderson a redesign, or build a new one in Brookline.

This comes after the town discovered the refrigeration system at the rink - the same one that many families watched their kids play hockey throughout the years - was damaged beyond repair last year. They set it up to operate seasonally on temporary refrigeration units, but that's expensive and not sustainable.

"The Jack Kirrane Ice Skating Rink at Larz Anderson Park is a beloved amenity that has been celebrated for generations as a unique outdoor ice skating destination," Commissioner Erin Gallentine said in a statement, recognizing its history in town.

But, she said, it is unclear how many seasons the town can expect to open the facility under the current conditions.

Previously: Future Of Brookline's Ice Rink At Larz Anderson Park In Question

The first step is a feasibility study. This study is intended to develop preliminary designs, assess site layout and circulation, engineering considerations, traffic and parking, prepare preliminary cost estimates, and develop maintenance and operating costs for the facility.

The Commission-appointed Ice Skating Rink Task Force are set to hold four public meeting on the topic. The first over Zoom, is set for 6 p.m. June 24, to discuss project goals, community needs, existing facility conditions, and activity and programming.

The Brookline Ice Skating Rink Recreational Facility Preliminary Design Services Request for Proposals went out to bid in April 2021.

Interviews were completed through the Town’s Purchasing Division by a Selection Committee consisting of Parks and Recreation staff, commissioners and task force members during the month of April and into May. The bid was awarded to a team assembled by Klopfer Martin Design Group, based in Boston.

“Our approach to design is rooted in collaboration, research, and a respect for the site and for the people who will use the space,” Mark Klopfer of Klopfer Martin Design Group said in a statement.

“We are all disappointed that the refrigeration system failed, but we look forward to working with our Ice Rink Task Force, Park and Recreation Commission, and the public on a feasibility study to reimagine an ice skating facility and destination that serves the community,” said Parks and Open Space Director Alexandra Vecchio.

The town converted what once was a Italianate garden into the seasonal open air outdoor Jack Kirrane Ice Rink at Larz Anderson Park in 1958. The rink has been home to the town's youth hockey league and winter memories - including those of Hockey Dad and former Patriots Quarterback Tom Brady - ever since.

To access the meeting, click here and register in advance via this link.

Previously: Future Of Brookline's Ice Rink At Larz Anderson Park In Question