Sugar Sand Rink Going Undercover

District Commissioners are taking steps to ensure Sugar Sand Park's outdoor multisport rink can be utilized by the Boca Raton community to its fullest capacity.

During the first public meeting of 2025, Commissioners approved the initial design of a roof that will cover and protect the open-air rink.

“With more groups looking to use the rink for a variety of sports, our constituents are asking for a cover to ensure that it's in a playable condition when their reserved time arrives,” said Commissioner Steve Engel, who initialed the motion to approve the design.

Roller hockey, other forms of skating and basketball have constantly been played within the rink since its opening. In 2024 Commissioners approved the addition of a new type of surface to allow the play of futsal - a soccer training activity that is quickly becoming a popular stand alone sport.

Weather conditions can make it difficult for the rink to keep up with demand for use. Rain, especially in summer months, and even morning dew can render the surface too slick to safely enjoy outdoor play.

At the year's second public meeting, Commissioners voted to extend the proposed overhang to cover 12 feet beyond the rink, with the intention of further ensuring wind-driven rain doesn't saturate the playing surface. The extended roof will also cover bleachers, allowing parents and fans to comfortably watch participants play.

District Commissioner Craig Ehrnst believes extending the roof provides three benefits.

“One is shade protection against sun and rain - everything - because it's bigger,” Ehrnst said. “Second is, you want to be able to walk around and see your kids or see people play. And third, I think it will help the design, overall, look better.”

On sunny days, especially during the summer, large fans underneath the roof will keep air circulating, helping to regulate the temperature by pushing warm air out the sides and top of the open-air facility.

Once the roof is in place, the District will also undertake the planned replacement of the dasher boards that surround the rink.