On Saturday the Arlington County Board approved a plan to expand the size of the Pentagon Row skating rink while extending the length of time the rink is allowed to be open.
Under the approved site plan amendment, the privately-owned rink will be expanded by 40 feet — to 57 by 120 feet — and the rink will remain open for an additional month, opening in October instead of November. The rink will continue to operate through March.
“The bigger rink, operating a month longer each season, will be able to serve more neighbors and visitors looking for a low-cost, fun way to get some exercise in the late fall and winter,” County Board Chair Mary Hynes said in a statement. “This project will make an already popular public space even better.”
The revamped Pentagon Row plaza design also includes two free standing, 800 square foot retail structures, a fire pit, an interactive water display, year-round seating and elevated bleachers during the cold season to view the ice rink. During warmer months, the rink will be replaced by an artificial turf lawn and stage area.
The site plan amendment, which was supported by the local Aurora Highlands Civic Association, was approved on an unanimous 4-0 vote.