Just in time for the cold front that chilled DeKalb residents this week, some frosty fun is coming back to town.

Residents will once again be able to glide and twirl at the DeKalb Community Ice Rink, at the corner of First and Locust streets, reopening Friday with a one-hour skate from 7 to 8 p.m.

The rink, which is made of synthetic ice, first opened in November 2008. The project was spear-headed by Re:New DeKalb, a group that aims to fulfill “strategic initiatives that stimulate improve and enhance the downtown area,” according to the organization’s Web site.

Jennifer Groce, Re:New DeKalb’s executive director, said the concept for an ice rink came from public input during downtown revitalization planning.

“It’s a wonderful addition to outdoor recreation,” Groce said. “It’s also portable and cost-efficient.”

The “ice” is actually a polymer substrate that doesn’t need to be kept frozen. This makes it much cheaper to maintain than conventional ice, Groce said.

Former NIU graduate Diane Dailing, owner of program management company The Skate School, agrees.

“It’s such a great idea to have a rink downtown,” she said. “It’s good exercise and a wonderful family activity, and because it’s seasonal, there’s such a great winter wonderland feeling.”

There will be special events held throughout the winter months, such as last year’s free “Skate with Santa,” numerous “Family Skate Days” and other events.

Admission cost is $3 for children and students who provide ID, and $5 for adults. For those without skates, rental is $3. For those who plan on making good use of the rink, “pass books” for five admissions including skate rental can be purchased for $25.

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