Richmond officials confirm permit lapse with downtown ice rink

By: Will Jones | Times-Dispatch
Published: December 10, 2010

Richmond officials acknowledged Thursday that a building permit should have been issued before city workers on Monday started building an ice-skating rink on East Broad Street.

"All relevant city departments are being reminded that they are to determine whether permits are required for work even if that work seems routine," Chief Administrative Officer Byron C. Marshall said in a news release.

City officials said that building, mechanical and electrical permits have now been approved. SMG Richmond, which will operate the rink for the city, applied for the permits Wednesday after the Richmond Times-Dispatch questioned whether construction of a wood frame to serve as a foundation for the rink had commenced without the necessary permits.

City officials said in the news release that no mechanical or electrical work for the portable rink had preceded the permits.

"The only work that transpired prior to the permitting process was essentially the building of a sandbox," acting Building Commissioner Ray Abbasi said in the news release. "The nature of the problem has been resolved and all permits have been issued."

He continued: "We are working with all parties involved with this project to ensure that proper procedures are adhered to and that all inspections are conducted according to Uniform Statewide Building Code. There is no reason to expect anything other than a sound structure that will bring much enjoyment to city residents and visitors."

Mayor Dwight C. Jones announced plans for the 8,400-square-foot rink on Monday. It is scheduled to open Dec. 22 and is being financed with $155,000 in private donations, which officials haven't disclosed.

The rink is being constructed on East Broad between Sixth and Seventh streets, adjacent to the Richmond CenterStage performing arts center.

The site is owned by the Virginia Performing Arts Foundation, which is the precursor of the CenterStage Foundation. The foundation provides fundraising and operational support for the CenterStage performing arts venues.

wjones@timesdispatch.com

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