The rink will be located between Bee Cave Public Library and the Central Plaza Lawn, where the splash pad currently stands. Between Nov. 4 and Jan. 2, the 40-by-84-foot rink will be able to support 120 people at a time and offer 50 operating hours per week, according to the city. Skates will be available for rent for $10-$15 an hour.
“Based on the conversations that we’ve had, [ice rinks] are popular enough that it should cover the expenses with rentals,” City Manager Clint Garza said.
At the July 26 council meeting, the city authorized the use of $300,000 in hotel occupancy tax funds to ensure the rink delivery and setup through an agreement with the Hill Country Galleria and Ire Crown Rinks. The city will be responsible for the installation of the rink as well as running electricity and water to it.
The Galleria made the request for $300,000 and is putting up $100,000 of its own funds with the initial agreement. The Galleria will be responsible for daily operation of the rink, including skate rentals and ongoing maintenance.
The motion passed by council also permits the city to develop a separate reimbursement agreement for the Hill Country Galleria to repay some or all of the hotel occupancy tax funds used for the project. The attraction could generate anywhere from $382,000-$540,000 at $15 a skate rental, according to the city.
“People are going to come from all over to shop here, dine here and skate here, so it will be really exciting,” Mayor Kara King said.
