RI Outdoors/Sports

Mayor David N. Cicilline announced the award of the Fleet Rink management contract to Rink Management Services Corporation of Virginia, national experts in operating municipal and non-profit rinks.

"What we have been looking for is a firm expert in managing rinks - especially outdoor facilities - to operate what is recognized as a true jewel in our city, and for it to be their primary focus and attention," said Mayor Cicilline. "Clearly, Rink Management Services Corporation has the experience and expertise to do the job. They enjoy a long and respected history of successfully managing top-flight ice skating rinks, particularly those that are outdoors, and I have every confidence they will do the same here with the Fleet Rink," he said.

The Mayor said he anticipated a smooth transition for its operation during the winter season and would negotiate with Rink Management Services Corporation, after the winter months and after they have reached budget expectations, about the possibility of managing the rink in the spring and summer months.

"Their track record - in Boston, New York City, Syracuse, Colorado Springs, Manassas, Annapolis, Houston and Cleveland - has been a solid one. In the case of downtown Manassas, they managed well a rink that has held more than 120 events during the past two years - including street festivals, children's functions, concerts, dinner dances and ice cream socials," the Mayor said.

The company is expected to provide all management and administrative functions; scheduling and programming; sales, marketing and promotions; human resources and employing of all workers; maintenance and repairs, and financial reporting, according to their proposal. The Civic Center Authority will continue to manage the Dunkin Donuts facility.

"The Fleet Rink has provided unmatched outdoor recreation for families and visitors, and is a dramatic and exciting part of the downtown landscape," the Mayor said. "Knowing that it will be managed properly, by individuals who have had extensive experience in handling such facilities, is an assurance to us that the Fleet Rink will continue to run well throughout the winter months, and continue to offer tourists and residents alike a focus for more family entertainment and great memories.

The contract was one of two made recently to the City's Board of Contract and Supply, and was chosen as the lowest responsible bidder. Beyond their experience in managing ice rinks in season and out-of-season, they have worked closely with municipal governments in many states with great results, the Mayor indicated.

The agreement with Rink Management Services is for the duration of this skating season, and will provide a fee of $35,000 - with $10,000 of that fee subject to the Rink Services Corporation meeting budget expectations. Based upon their performance, the City will negotiate with Rink Management Services Corporation for the period going forward.

The company is based in Mechanicsville, Virginia, and was founded in 1999 by Thomas W. Hillgrove. It was his second recreational company; his first focused on ski areas, and was hailed by Amusement Business Magazine as the fourth largest venue management company in North America. He sold that company in 1998 to start Rink Management Services Corporation.

Some of the other outdoor projects managed by Rink Management Services include Wollman and Lasker in Central Park and South Street Seaport, Boston and in Annapolis. The facilities they manage have also been featured in such publications as the Washington Post and the Post-Standard (Syracuse, NY)

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