Summer use of the Waterfront is increasing annually. On warm days, Waterfront
Park, the Bikepath, and many Waterfront attractions are bustling with activity.
But with the exception of days when special events or festivals are scheduled,
winter activity on the Waterfront is very low.
One of the Guiding Principles of the Waterfront
Plan (Section II) states: We recognize that there are four seasons in
Vermont, and that the Burlington Waterfront must be developed so that is can be
used and enjoyed year-round.
In February 1998, the City Council Waterfront Committee held a summit of
residents, business owners and city officials to begin the discussion of how
best to encourage "off season" use of the Waterfront. Two ideas
received strong support from all sectors during that meeting, and could create
immediate increases in winter use.
The existing location of the Waterfront ice rink will be eliminated with the
expansion of the Lake Champlain Basin Science Center. At the February 1998
summit, participants identified the construction of a quality outdoor ice
skating rink as one of the highest priorities to encourage winter use of the
Waterfront. The current skatepark design for the permitted site just north of
Waterfront Park includes a multi-season skating facility designed for summer
in-line/roller skating and winter ice skating. That location is pending current
litigation. Refer to Element M.
The development of a quality sledding hill would contribute dramatically to
the vitality of the Waterfront during winter months. Further study would be
needed to determine the practicality, location, and required investment. The
installation of snowmaking equipment would lengthen the season and would ensure
a base of snow even in dry winters. Water is readily available from the lake. If
Depot Street was to be used as a sledding hill, a compressor could be situated
at the base of the hill, and piping for water could be installed during
reconstruction of the street as detailed in Element
B: Infrastructure Improvements.
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