New Chillers To Enhance Outdoor Skating In Downtown Casper

Winter weather is kinda hit-or-miss in Casper. One year we can constantly get whollopped with cold and snow, and the next year it's dry and mild. If you listen to the internet, weather forecasters, or your phone's weather app to plan your day or what to wear, you'll constantly be confused.

The weather also plays a big role in the activities we've all come to love around here, and with such unpredictable weather, it can be quite the kerfluffle. When we have little snow and warmer conditions, downhill skiers and snowboarders at Hogadon, snowmobilers, snowshoers, and cross-country skiers who enjoy going up Casper Mountain have far fewer opportunities to get out and enjoy the snow.

The same goes for ice skating at David Street Station. For years, the big concern was whether a chiller would be available to rent for a few months so an ice skating rink could surround the community Christmas tree and give Casper the feel of a Hallmark Christmas movie.

Now, thanks to incredible donations, finding the chiller isn't a concern. As you read this, crews are planning the installation of the second and final chiller, which will be placed in its permanent location to help skaters and the outdoor ice rink.

David Street Station Executive Director Whitney Asay says work is beginning to convert the Summer/Fall David Street Station into the Winter version.

We'll start getting the ice rink walls up early November, and we should be raring to go for Thanksgiving weekend. So, Black Friday is always the opening, so as long as weather cooperates with us and we get some winter, then we're good to go.

Now, we're hoping Mother Nature plays along and gives us ideal outdoor conditions.

The chillers are fantastic machines, but they're not miracle workers. If you remember last winter, some days were so warm the chillers couldn't keep up. When that happens, ice skating turns into slush stomping, and it's not safe.

Let's all cross our fingers, toes, and eyes, think positive thoughts, and do good things to create good karma so that we have a good cold winter.

The ice rink is scheduled to open on Black Friday, November 27, and be ready to roll by the Community Tree Lighting on the 28th. That gives the crews a little over a month to get everything in place, and for Mother Nature to turn down the thermostat and give us a steady 30 to 45-degree temperature.