Geneva ice skating moves to Wheeler Park

Genevans who want to ice skate outdoors will do so in a new location this year.

The Geneva Park District has eliminated its rinks at Jaycees and Sunset parks, in favor of a two-rink setup at Wheeler Park.

One rink will be set aside for hockey, the other for figure skating.

The rinks will have retainer boards. A warming shelter will be available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and school holidays.

The rinks will be open until 10 p.m. daily.

To make ice, the ambient air temperature has to remain at 20 degrees or below for at least 48 hours. The rink starts with a ring of crushed-limestone screening, 12 to 18 inches thick. Water is sprayed two times a day to build a base. Once the rink is made, workers maintain it by sweeping, shoveling or plowing, and reapplying water.

Wheeler Park is at Route 31 and Stevens Street.

For more information, call (630) 232-4542 or visit genevaparks.org.