BETTENDORF, Iowa — You won't have to wait too long for The Landing Ice Rink to arrive in Bettendorf.
Construction is almost done on a permanent ice rink that will replace the city's temporary Frozen Landing Family Ice Rink.
The new rink will be 40%, or 4,000 square feet, larger than its predecessor and will be located at 2255 Middle Road. It's part of a $19.6 million plan that will also feature a brand new water park, swimming pool and five outbuildings for the aquatic building. Inside, you'll find climate-controlled restrooms, concession stands and warming areas, as well as outdoor gas firepits with seating.
Greg Samms is a city coordinator who managed the beloved Frozen Landing ice rink, which averaged 14,000 visitors each season. He's sad to see the old rink go, but excited to see the community hit some fresh ice.
"The most important priority [is to create] a place for kids in the neighborhood to come to," Samms said. "This is centrally located. You will be able to come on a short little car trip or some people walk. There are limited things that are affordable to do in the wintertime, and this is something that fits right into that category of recreational activities in the winter. This is something you can depend on, that will be open. Come up, enjoy it with your family."
Officials have not announced a grand opening date, however, they are hopeful to put skates to ice around Thanksgiving. The water attractions are expected to be up and running in the summer of 2025.
City officials say they sold the portable ice rink to a new owner in Florida for $38,000. The City of Bettendorf is looking to hire ice rink attendants and clerks for the 2024-2025 season. You can find more information here.