East Brunswick Ice Rink Gets Professional Management as Township Eyes Profitability

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ – The Council on Monday adopted a resolution awarding a three-year contract to Black Bear for management of the upcoming ice rink.

On March 13, the Township published a Request for Proposals for East Brunswick Ice Arena Programming Services, and Black Bear Corporation was the sole vendor that submitted a proposal.

The Township and Black Bear have negotiated a certain license agreement for ice arena programming services.

Black Bear owns and runs around 40 to 45 ice rinks in neighboring states, where they operate a lot of different leagues. They will be brining similar services to the township ice rink, May Brad Cohen said.

The mayor clarified that although hockey leagues and other programs will be taking place at the ice rink, residents will get first dibs on time slots, whether it's for the school ice hockey team or skating.

“Any time that the town isn't using slots, that's what would be made available to black bear,” Cohen said.

He also noted that the venture is expected to break even or turn a small profit, akin to the township's successful Crystal Springs investment.

“Most businesses often take time to get off the ground. Our own example would be Crystal Springs, which, many years ago was the same story,” Cohen said. "And it took a little time, but it did, ultimately, in time, become a profitable entity, and one that we're proud of today.”

According to the contract, Black Bear will use the rink solely for ice hockey activities including learn-to-play hockey programs, clinics, tournaments and/or any other public or semi-public ice hockey events without the express written consent from the township.

They will also be responsible for all damage, with the exception of general wear and tear, associated with the activities herein.

With Black Bear coming into to run operations, the Township will be able to attract large ice hockey tournaments to the township.

“It's an economic driver to the township, and none of that would be possible if we did this on our own, and expected to grow the program on our own,” Cohen said. "So this is a big deal.”

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