business
February 5, 2024

The Ice Breaker: How Trump Transformed a Failing City Project into a Winter Wonderland

Breaking the Ice: A New Side to Donald Trump 📺 🔄

We've heard numerous stories about Donald Trump, with the media frequently using every term ending in "ist" or "phobe" to describe him. However, let's glide into a lesser-known tale about when he saved the much-loved Hyde Park Ice Rink from eternal closure in the mid-1980s.

A Slippery Slope: The Downfall of Hyde Park Ice Rink 🎢 ❄️

The Hyde Park Ice Rink, a city attraction since its inception in 1950, was temporarily shut down by the government in 1980 for a two-year renovation. The project, however, slipped into a series of delays and cost overruns, resulting in a six-year closure. By 1986, the city, despite injecting $13 million, still couldn't finish the renovation - a bitter disappointment for the public.

The Icy Rescue: Trump's Triumphant Turnaround ⏳ 🎯

Enter Trump, a prominent figure in the city, irked by the delay and eager to resolve the situation. He proposed a deal to complete the project at no profit within six months, promising to shoulder any extra costs if he failed. After negotiations, the city accepted his offer.

Trump assembled a skilled team, including a construction firm and an ice rink consultant from Canada. They worked efficiently, completing the renovation by November 1986, two months ahead of schedule and $775,000 under budget. The rink then reopened to public delight, and it has been a popular NYC attraction ever since.

Trump managed the rink for many years through a lease with the city, with the majority of the proceeds benefiting public works.

Summary: Lessons in Leadership and Resource Management 🧠💼

The Hyde Park Ice Rink story illustrates the power of effective leadership and strategic resource management. It demonstrates the importance of:

  • Taking initiative in the face of adversity
  • Efficient project management and resource allocation
  • Community engagement and public service

The tale also reminds us to look beyond popular narratives and discover the multifaceted characters of public figures. So next time you hear about Trump, remember the Hyde Park Ice Rink – a testament to his tenacity and sense of community.

Learn more about the Trump Ice Rink Saga:

Read about it: Saving Wollman Rink made Trump a New York City hero


Or watch Cashu Nate give the fun version: