“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
— Eleanor Roosevelt
During my years serving the city of Santa Clarita, I have had the opportunity to watch our community grow and evolve. One thing that has remained constant is our commitment to creating new ways for residents to stay active, connect with one another and enjoy life in Santa Clarita.
For years, the idea of bringing a roller skating facility to Santa Clarita was a dream shared by the City Council and our community. Today, watching that vision come to life is another milestone I am grateful to experience, and I know many residents share my excitement as we get closer to opening the doors of The Rink Sports Pavilion.
For those of us who remember the former Saugus Rollerama, The Rink also brings a sense of nostalgia. Raising a family in Santa Clarita means appreciating the places where generations have gathered, made friends and created memories. Now, a new generation will have that same opportunity in a brand-new city facility designed to be welcoming to all ages.
The Rink will be much more than a place to roller skate. It will offer residents a safe and welcoming space to socialize, learn a new skill, play sports and spend time together. Once complete, the more than 25,000-square-foot facility will feature a 12,000-square-foot skating surface that can transform into a multisport arena with three pickleball courts, a volleyball court and a basketball court, along with seating for spectators.
One of the most rewarding parts of this project has been watching the transformation firsthand. I have visited the site throughout construction, from the early stages following our groundbreaking to where we are today, and each visit brings something new.
Inside, the skating floor has been installed and finished, preparing it for its sports lines and final surface. Throughout the facility, crews have continued making progress on the restrooms, drinking fountains, kitchen equipment and other final touches. Outside, new pavers and approximately 15 trees are helping shape the space that will soon welcome our community.
One of my favorite milestones was seeing The Rink Sports Pavilion sign installed. Watching each letter go up made the opening feel that much closer. After years of planning and months of watching this facility rise from the ground, we are now counting down to the day residents can experience it for themselves.
Beyond skating and sports, The Rink will include a commercial kitchen, DJ booth and dining areas, creating a flexible community space for birthday parties, youth programs, special events and celebrations. It is another place our residents will be able to call their own and another example of our continued commitment to providing recreational opportunities for every generation.
I invite you to join us for the Grand Opening of The Rink Sports Pavilion on Friday, Oct. 9, at 2 p.m. I look forward to seeing families walk through those doors, lace up their skates and begin creating their own memories at The Rink. As we roll closer to opening day, follow @TheRinkSportsPavilion on Instagram and Facebook for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes looks at our newest recreation facility. I’ll see you soon at The Rink!
Councilman Bill Miranda is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at [email protected].
