Friends of Shrub Oak Rink announced a major step forward Nov. 11 in the multi-season revitalization of the outdoor recreational rink at Shrub Oak Memorial Park. With official project support from the Town of Yorktown, the community organization has engaged EMPowerplay, a specialized sports facility development and capital advisory firm, as lead developer and strategic partner for the initiative.
The public-private partnership aims to transform the existing Shrub Oak Park Rink on Sunnyside Street into a modern, multi-use recreational destination serving local families, youth sports organizations, and community programs.
"This is a defining milestone for the community," said Cassandra Vazquez, representative for Friends of Shrub Oak Rink. "The enthusiasm from Yorktown residents, and even from neighboring towns, to see this park asset restored has been overwhelming. With formal support from the Town Supervisor, the Town Board, and Parks & Recreation, plus the technical expertise of EMPowerplay, we are moving from a shared vision into active project planning."
The redevelopment plan outlines a phased approach to deliver immediate recreation benefits while building toward long-term goals:
Phase 1 (Core Rink Infrastructure): Focuses on a total ground-up transformation – including tearing down the old structure, rotating and expanding to NHL-size dimensions, elevating the surface to prevent flooding, pouring a brand-new concrete slab, adding a full overhead roof structure, and providing a high-performance multi-sport surface for ball hockey, inline hockey, community events, and more.
Future Phases: Exploring an enclosed, multi-purpose facility with future ice-making capabilities as participation and capital growth support it.
The project is structured as a zero-net-cost model for Yorktown taxpayers, funded entirely through private philanthropy, corporate sponsorships, state and foundational grants, and local fundraising. All raised funds will be administered directly by Friends of Shrub Oak Rink under town oversight.
A major state capital grant application through the NYS Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) was submitted earlier this year, with award decisions expected in December. In tandem, the project team is preparing to launch a $1 million Phase 1 capital fundraising campaign to secure founding corporate partners and lead individual donors.
“EMPowerplay is proud to partner with Friends of Shrub Oak Rink and the Town of Yorktown to bring new life to this important community asset," said Josh Glass, Founder & President of EMPowerplay. "Our vision goes beyond rebuilding a rink. It’s about creating a place where young athletes discover their potential, families come together, and the community builds lasting connections through sports. Together, we have an opportunity to preserve Yorktown’s hockey tradition while creating a brighter future for generations to come.”
Friends of Shrub Oak Rink has officially launched its community donation portal.
Local residents, business owners, and sports leaders interested in making a donation under $1000 can do so here: Donate to Shrub Oak Rink.
For donations larger than $1000, please contact friendsofshruboakrink@gmail.com.
Interested in getting involved or supporting the project? Please join our Facebook group or follow us on Instagram (@friendsofshruboakrink) for project updates and volunteer opportunities.
Article provided by Friends of Shrub Oak Rink
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