Cleland Ice Rink to Remain Open Through Spring Hockey Season

FORT BRAGG, N.C. - Fort Bragg officials announced April 25 that Cleland Ice Rink will remain open through May 24 to allow the spring hockey season to be completed.

Fort Bragg is also seeking community input on the recently announced proposed rates for use of Cleland Ice Rink, as part of the installation’s continuing efforts to mitigate the negative effects of the current budgetary difficulties.

“We need the community to understand that this solicitation for input does not necessarily mean that the rink will remain open past May 24, rather the installation is looking for options that might  keep the doors open past that date,” said Tom McCollum, Fort Bragg garrison Public Affairs Officer.

Since the announcement March 27 that Cleland will close during the summer months, from April 27 to Sept. 15, patrons have expressed disappointment and frustration on the post’s official social media sites and through public petitions.

“We certainly understand that the planned closure of Cleland will have an impact on the ice-sports community in the region, however current revenues during the summer months are historical lower and the ways in which the rink’s utilities are funded makes the summer closure necessary,” McCollum said. “We are exploring ways to modify the current funding system to make potentially increased user fees a viable solution to increase revenues and keep Cleland open.”