The Loop is Closed Until Ice Resurfacing is Completed

On Sunday, Jan. 12 St. John's received approximately 20 millimeters of rain along with 100 kilometer per hour winds in combination with a temperature of seven degrees Celsius. These weather conditions resulted in a portion of The Loop’s ice melting. The ice turned to water and was rapidly blown off the trail surface, preventing refreezing. Sections of the underlying concrete surface on the eastern section of The Loop (near the washrooms) became exposed.

Ice trails are designed without water retaining curbs as they are considered to be tripping hazards. The City is evaluating a method to address the retention of water without causing a safety issue.

Ice trails, including The Loop at Bannerman Park, are designed to be operational in temperatures up to five to six degrees Celsius. However, with the complete loss of ice in one section, the facility had to be closed.

The City now has to rebuild the ice. This will be accomplished by repeatedly applying thin layers of water, approximately 1/16 inch thick, until a minimum thickness of one inch is reached. Once obtained The Loop can be reopened. During sub-zero weather the resurfacing of ice can be completed in approximately two days. However, with the current long-term forecast of rain, winds and warmer temperatures, it is unlikely that conditions will be suitable to reopen The Loop until early next week.  

The public will be advised once the ice on The Loop is suitable for skating again.
 
For further information:
Access St. John’s
Phone: 311 or (709) 754-2489