As the central feature of the Mill River Park and Greenway, the fountain/ice skating rink plays a commanding role during all seasons. In the warmer months, the fountain jets spray brilliant water arcs into a large open pool. Visitors to the park can sit on either edge of the pool and watch the activity unfold on the Great Lawn or engage in the fountain. In the winter, the fountain converts to an ice rink, attracting all levels of ice skaters and spectators. As an added attraction, the fountain/ice rink is underlit by a dynamic lighting configuration that alludes to galactic patterns and celestial formations. These lighting effects help make the fountain/ice rink an evening destination in and of itself and will draw more people into the park during later hours. The fountain/ice rink can also be converted to a platform where live performances and venues can overlook the water.

Comparison Studies

The design team studied different sizes of skating rinks by researching several successful examples in many urban parks. The space restrictions allow for approximately 8,500 SF, making the rink comparable in size to the 68 facilities at Rockefeller Center. This is a minimum recommended size.