A worker drives a Zamboni ice resurfacer painted with the Trump logo on the Wollman ice skating rink after it’s closure in Central Park, New York on February 21, 2021. – The City of New York was to end today the contracts that allow the Trump Organization to manage several attractions such as the Wollman and Lasker Rinks, following the violent outburst of violence at the U.S. Capitol, but after New Yorkers complained about the closure of a safe outdoor exercise facility during the pandemic, mayor Bill De Blasio issued this statement: New York City kids deserve all the time on the ice they can get this year, the Wollman and Lasker rinks will stay open under current management for the few weeks left in this season. But make no mistake, we will not be doing business with the Trump Organization going forward. Inciting an insurrection will never be forgotten or forgiven.
A consortium of businesses and nonprofits will run Central Park's Wollman rink, one of four recreational concessions that were operated by Donald Trump's company until the city canceled its contracts with the former president, the city Department of Parks and Recreation announced Tuesday.
A joint venture called Wollman Park Partners LLC is expected to be awarded a five-year contract to run the rink after submitting the winning bid for the project, city officials said.
The joint venture, which includes Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, Related Companies, Equinox, caterer Great Performances and local groups such as Ice Hockey in Harlem, will reinvest all profits into upgrading the rink, city officials said.
“It’s the Summer of New York City, but we’re already preparing for an iconic winter, too,” New York Mayor Bill de Blasio said in a news release. “I’m thrilled that NYC Parks has found a quality operator for Wollman Rink that is committed to reinvesting in the community and creating a welcoming space for all New Yorkers.”
Get Tri-state area news and weather forecasts to your inbox. Sign up for NBC New York newsletters.
De Blasio, a Democrat, announced in January that the city would terminate business contracts with the Trump Organization over Trump's role in the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.
The cancellations affected a golf course in the Bronx and a carousel and two ice skating rinks in Central Park. The Trump Organization sued the city last month over the contract to run the golf course, Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point, calling the cancellation “purely politically motivated.”
De Blasio has said he expects the city to prevail in any litigation over the Trump contracts.
News
While Wollman Rink in the southern section of Central Park should open this winter, Lasker Rink in the park's northern section is being replaced with a new rink and swimming pool and will be closed during the upgrade, Parks Department officials said.
Central Amusement International, an amusement park developer, has been chosen to operate the carousel, officials said.
