In January, the Hill & Lake Press ran an informative article about the potential closing of the Lake of the Isles ice rink for the 2025-26 season. Since then, many Minneapolis and metro-area residents have reached out, expressing concerns and asking how they can help. In the past two weeks, my inbox and voicemail have been flooded with responses following a notice about the potential closure posted at the warming house, a new petition being circulated, and a recent news report. Thank you for all your input — I’m listening.
Background
During last year’s budget process, staff identified this skating location as a possible closure in winter 2025-26 due to budgetary pressures. At the time, I raised concerns and was told staff would reevaluate funding this year and address the issue in the upcoming budget process. Initial budget work is compiled by staff in April and finalized by commissioners in October or November. I am hopeful staff will reevaluate in favor of keeping this important community amenity open.
Lake of the Isles is the last lake ice rink in the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board system and sits in a regional park, providing free skating opportunities for many across the region. Additionally in the recently approved Cedar-Isles master plan, the rink is slated to expand and include a skating “ribbon” path around the northern portion of the lake.
Community Voices
As I’ve read through your messages, it’s clear there is an unwavering connection to this place that goes back more than 45 years.
Jake spoke about this generational impact, sharing that his grandfather lived on the lake, his father and he both learned to skate there, and now he returns every season with his friends to play pickup hockey.
Ana, originally from a warm-weather country, was thrilled to send me a video of her young daughter embracing the cold and learning to skate.
Others wrote about the emotional, physical, mental, and social benefits of this space. Many appreciated the availability of free skates.
Emily, Aria, and Elizabeth, law students at the University of Minnesota, described the rink as their low-cost, fun way to spend weekends.
Bryce, who can’t afford a gym membership, shared that skating helps him stay active and fight the winter blues, describing “the inherent lightness of skating across a frozen surface that brings pure joy.”
Lastly, I’ve heard heartfelt stories of how the rink has allowed people to get to know their neighbors and become a natural place for relational connection. One person wrote that getting to know others is easy when you are “falling down on your butts and laughing your head off.” Connecting with one another and enjoying the beauty of the outdoors is what our park system is all about.
How to Get Involved:
If you would like to advocate for this space, Lowry Hill resident Janet Hallaway and others have started a petition at www.change.org/LOTIskating.
You can also email MPRB executive staff or sign up to speak during public comment time at MPRB board meetings.
