Community Celebrates the Opening of Robinson Outdoor Rink

Thanks to the hard work of community volunteers, in partnership with the City, a neighbourhood rink in Greater Sudbury’s South End has been revitalized. 

A new concrete pad has been installed at Robinson Outdoor Rink on Cranbrook Crescent to allow for year-round play. Other improvements include new rink boards and fencing. Basketball hoops will be installed in the spring.

“Local businesses stepped up with donations, and volunteers worked collaboratively with City staff to create this safe space for children and families to play year-round,” said Greater Sudbury Mayor Paul Lefebvre. “We know that play is a vital component of child development and life-long physical activity. Thank you to everyone who worked tirelessly to make this happen.”

The total value of this project is approximately $390,000, but the actual cost is in the range of $200,000 thanks to sponsors and work in-kind. Over the past year, the Robinson Neighbourhood Association raised more than $200,000 for the project, which includes support from the City’s Healthy Community Initiative (HCI) Fund. 

“I was beyond excited when the association approached me with this idea,” said Ward 1 Councillor Mark Signoretti. “This is a group of some of the most dedicated volunteers I have ever had the opportunity to work with. Their passion and commitment to bringing our community together is palpable, and I am so proud of their tremendous efforts in fundraising to make this project happen.”

The City of Greater Sudbury, the Robinson Neighbourhood Association and special guests celebrated the official opening of the rink with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on December 17.

Volunteers have begun flooding and building ice on the rink. Signs will be displayed onsite when the ice is safe to skate on. In spring, summer and fall, the surface can be used for ball hockey, basketball, skateboarding and more.

For more information on the City’s neighbourhood rinks, visit https://www.greatersudbury.ca/play/recreational-facilities/outdoor-rinks/.