After only being able to open for just 10 days this year, the Rideau Canal Skateway closed for the season at 10 pm on Sunday, February 25, 2024. The National Capital Commission thanks everyone for their patience and “showing up.”
“Despite the erratic weather, you showed up – and showed your enthusiasm! 160,000 people visited the Skateway during the 10 days it was open this year. Thank you for your patience and your encouraging words!” reads their official news release.
Hats off to the food concession and maintenance teams, who were able to work their magic despite the unpredictable weather! They were adaptable and resilient over the last few weeks.
Weather and the science of ice
The NCC continues to partner with Carleton University to study the impacts of climate change while attempting to understand skateway challenges. This will help us adapt when winters are unpredictable.
Unfortunately as winters get warmer and wetter, skating seasons shorten and ice quality decreases. As a result, in 2022, the NCC partnered with Carleton University to address these impacts of climate change on the Skateway. This collaboration aims to keep this decades-long tradition alive.
Shawn Kenny, a civil engineering professor from Carleton University, is one of the leads on this four-year collaboration. He’s working with our Skateway team to address the impacts of climate change. I met with him to talk about the science behind our climate change study.
From slush cannons to ice probes, there are many solutions on the table. Click on the link below to find out more.
Click this link
You Can Still Purchase Skateway Souvenirs!
Did you miss out on the skating season on the canal? Visit the souvenir kiosk on Thursday, February 29, from 11 am to 2 pm in the lobby of the NCC headquarters at 40 Elgin Street in Ottawa. Purchase limited edition, exclusive Rideau Canal Skateway merchandise.
- Neck warmers: $19.95
- Tuques (beanies): $29.95
- Pom hats: $39.95
- Mittens: $39.95
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