SACRAMENTO, Calif. — For some in Sacramento, the word 'Iceland' brings back memories of days at the ice skating rink on Del Paso Boulevard.
The ice skating rink opened in 1940 and was conceived by Rob Kerth's grandfather. His family ran the Iceland rink.
"I think I had skates on before I had shoes," he said.
The rink was fully operational until a fire caused by arson destroyed it back in 2010. The community rallied to reopen the rink later that year. However, in 2020, the coronavirus pandemic hit and the neon lights of Iceland went dim. It's been closed since, but with the hope of bringing skaters back to the ice.
Recently, the Sacramento City Council unanimously approved a proposal Tuesday night that would help fund the restoration project for the ice rink.
City documents indicate the refurbishment of the rink would cost around $2.1 million. The council's proposal includes two loan agreements that total $1.35 million. The loans would help cover improvements to the façade and a new metal roof that would allow Iceland to operate year round.
"I remember what North Sac used to be when we had two movie theaters, we had a bowling alley, roller rink. This is helping bring back my community and giving all the kids here, the ones today and the ones to come, something fun to do," said Kerth.
Dozens submitted written statements in support of Iceland ahead of the meeting, citing fond childhood memories and the positive impact it would have on the community.
During public comment, Lambert Davis of To The Bay and Back Gourmet Cheesecakes expressed his opposition to the loans during public comment questioning the amount of money being provided for the project.
However, many in Sacramento have fond memories of the rink from their childhood.
"Just the beauty of the ice rink. There's just that certain smell, that certain feeling... just being able to glide across the ice," said Kimberly, whose father Bob Hubbard, a professional skater, coached at Iceland.
He passed away Tuesday morning and Kimberly brought flowers to the rink in his honor. News of the restoration touched her heart.
"Oh my gosh, that means bringing back a whole lot of family history for me. My father grew up in that ice rink," she said. "He would be just beyond thrilled to know that this ice rink is going to continue."
City documents indicate the rink could resume operations by summer of 2024.
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