A popular ice rink in Kings Park will be temporarily closed for about two weeks after a fire broke out Sunday morning, causing significant damage to parts of the facility.
The fire started when a utility pole was struck by a snow plow during the storm, sparking flames that affected both the basement and the first floor of Superior Ice Rink. Arena officials say they are currently assessing the damage, and while the fire did not damage the rink’s ice surface, there’s still much to clean up.
Owner Richard McGuigan tells News 12 the ice surface is intact, and the compressors that keep the ice frozen are functioning properly. Power has also been restored to the building. The fire was contained to a telephone closet in the basement and an office on the first floor.
According to a spokesperson for the Town of Smithtown, the plow involved in the incident was a town vehicle, and the driver was not injured. An investigation into the crash is currently underway.
Superior Ice Rink staff are working closely with insurance adjusters to assess the damage. In the meantime, hockey players and skaters who regularly use the rink will have their leagues postponed or find alternative facilities.