Richmond's ice-skating rink isn't open yet, but officials are already dealing with an apparent slip-up.
Mayor Dwight C. Jones' administration has not approved permits for the project, even though construction started Monday.
Three permit applications dated Dec. 8 were posted on the city's website Wednesday afternoon after the Richmond Times-Dispatch asked whether permits had been obtained. The permits, covering mechanical, electrical and building work, were listed as pending for SMG Richmond, which will operate the rink for the city.
Tammy D. Hawley, press secretary to Jones, said she was looking into the matter but said any gap between the start of construction and approval of permits may stem from work having started three days earlier than expected.
She said she does not know whether the delay represents any problem because, so far, all work has been done by the city's Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities.
"The work that has been done is being done by the city," she said. "It's like permitting ourselves."
Dolly Vogt, general manager of SMG, could not be reached. A message on her office phone indicated she was out of the office until today.
The 8,400-square-foot skating rink is being funded with $155,000 in private donations and is being built along East Broad Street between Sixth and Seventh streets.
On Wednesday, crews had constructed a 70-foot-by-120-foot wood-frame box and were filling it with sand to provide a level foundation for the rink. Dump trucks deposited loads of sand as workers used hand tools and a roller compactor to spread and smooth the surface.
The rink is scheduled to open Dec. 22, but operating hours have not been finalized.
Children younger than 10 will be admitted to skate at no cost but will need adult supervision. Others will be admitted at $5 per person. Rental skates will be $3 for children and $5 for adults. Skaters also will be able to bring their own skates.
The rink is expected to operate during the winter months before being dismantled.
The permit applications indicate plans for a portable ice rink equipped with a 200-ton chiller, plus a bike rack, bleachers, fence, portable toilet and tents.
The site is adjacent to the Richmond CenterStage arts complex and 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
(804) 649-6911
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