This project melds two long term priorities for the Town of Winthrop-acquisition of an ideal piece of new park land and construction of a permanent ice rink and outdoor sports court. For years, the Town of Winthrop has eyed acquisition of the former Elementary School property for a Community Center park and trailhead. With this acquisition, the Town, in partnership with Methow Valley Sport Trail Association (MVSTA) and Winthrop Ice and Sports Rink Association (WISR), will be able to construct a permanent ice rink and outdoor sports court. The ice rink is a top priority of the Town's Park Plan. For ten years, WISR has erected a temporary ice rink each winter. The rink has been immensely popular with both residents and visitors. The number of youth and adult hockey players has grown steadily. The temporary location, however, is by no means ideal, and the amount of labor and resources required to set up and take down the rink each year points to a need for a permanent refrigerated rink. The new rink will also provide a court surface for summer activities. Winthrop is a small community with limited resources, yet each year it hosts a flood of visitors. Year-round outdoor recreation is key to the Town's appeal. The property to be acquired is centrally located in Winthrop. In addition to providing a home for the ice rink, the new park area would serve as an ideal trailhead for the Methow Valley Community Trail. This project pulls together and achieves the top priorities of several Town planning efforts.