Strap on your skates, Toronto’s Barbara Ann Scott Ice Trail opened officially on Saturday. The five-metre-wide trail is designed to be a walking loop in summer. The trail is named after the Olympic gold medalist figure skater who received the Lou Marsh Trophy three times as Canadian athlete of the year,

It is the first exterior skating path in North America to incorporate state-of-the-art carbon dioxide technology in its refrigeration system. This environmentally friendly technology is natural, non-toxic and non-flammable, with no net greenhouse gas effect.

Adjacent to the trail, an architectural construction of wood, glass and stainless steel has been designed as the new rink house/warming station/Zamboni station. Additional park features include a water fountain and large frog sculptures.

Funding for the College Park redevelopment was secured through Canderel Stoneridge, with additional funding provided by the City of Toronto.

The College Park redevelopment project is the result of the City collaborating with partners including the Downtown Yonge BIA, MBTW Group/Watchorn Architect and Project for Public Spaces.

Councillor Mike Layton (Ward 11 University-Rosedale) and Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam (Ward 13 Toronto Centre) were joined by Mark Garner, executive director of the Downtown Yonge BIA for the opening.

Mayor John Tory said, “This ice-skating trail turns College Park into a destination that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Families can come out and experience this skating trail that takes an environmentally-friendly approach to a winter activity that is cherished by so many.”