NEVERSINK – The ice rink at the Grahamsville Fairgrounds saw its fair share of skate traffic and usage thanks to a strong surge in winter weather. However, recent maintenance challenges brought on by warmer temperatures pushed for a premature seasonal end and forced the skates back into the closet.

At the request of Town Supervisor Chris Mathews, town maintenance worker Joe Bagley gave the cold, hard truth as to why the rink had to close for the season, while also providing an update on fairgrounds operations.

Bagley acknowledged the rink’s initial success during the coldest days of winter, a success he credited to new chilling equipment installed at the facility that helped produce solid ice when the season first began.

“When it was really cold, it was easy to make ice,” stated Bagley, attributing the success to the new chillers that “worked great.”

However, the recent warmup is when issues began to arise. The rink developed condensation above the ice surface, leading to water dripping from the roof and light fixtures creating icicles that needed to be chipped off.

At times, the ice formations grew several inches long before they could be removed. Bagley explained that such conditions are common in enclosed ice rinks, where warm air meeting cold air from the ice surface can create condensation issues.

To address the problem moving forward, the discussion shifted toward the possibility of improving air circulation inside the structure by installing fans.

Despite the maintenance challenges, Town Clerk Staci Conjura later read aloud that the rink still saw strong attendance this season.

Reading from a report provided by Neversink Parks and Recreation Director Tanya Huggler, Conjura said the rink attracted hundreds of visitors during the limited period it was open.

However, between rising temperatures and worsening condensation, the town was forced to close the rink earlier than the previously discussed Easter break timeframe. Out of an abundance of caution, the rink was shut down as conditions made it increasingly difficult to maintain a safe skating surface.

“The ice was an absolute mess from the condensation,” Conjura read, noting the significant amount of time workers spent attempting to repair the surface prior to skating sessions.

“I’d like to work together to come up with a plan to stay open longer next year with safe ice,” Huggler’s report concluded.