Skating has returned to Del Paso Boulevard

Iceland Ice Skating Rink re-opened today to skaters for the first time since burning down in March 2010.

“Such a journey from March until now,” said Terrie Kerth, whose family built the rink in the late 1930s. “So many volunteers who have helped, so many people who care about skating and thanks to them, we’re open.”

“Still lots of work to do, but we can skate.”

Iceland has played host to ice-skating, ice hockey, and ice shows. Former President and California Governor Ronald Regan skated at the facility, as did former boxer Max Baer.

The facility burned down last March following a private party, but the primary structure remained intact.

Since the fire, the Kerth family hosted numerous community cleanup days to clear and retrofit the facility. An ongoing drive has also been underway selling custom etched glass blocks to be used in the reconstruction of the facility.

“We’re selling etched glass blocks to go back on the front of the rink to raise money to put a roof on and to fill in where the bleachers used to be with 400-yards of gravel and put concrete on top of that,” said Terrie.

Iceland’s reopening appeared to on track until Councilmember Sandy Sheedy requested the matter be reviewed by the City Council last month. A compromise was eventually reached, and the council unanimously approved the special use permit.

“We get three years to put a roof back on, and during that time we can petition to extend,” said Terrie.

“We have to raise a lot of money. It will probably be the biggest infrastructure project in North Sacramento in maybe forever to get the roof back on.”

After finally being able to reopen the rink, Terrie was able to put things in perspective, particularly the rink’s impact on Del Paso Boulevard.

“This is a place to come and have fun, and I think that’s very important,” said Terrie.

Visit www.icelandrestoration.com for more information about the rink and how to donate.

Be sure to view Kati Garner's article and Iceland Memories for some great pictures.

HOURS

Located at 1430 Del Paso Blvd, Sac, CA (enter in back on Edgewater)

Weekends and Holidays: 10am to 5pm

Weekdays: 2pm to 5pm.

PRICES

Adults: $8.00

Kids: $5.00

Skate Rental: $2.00