By Karen Cooper

Published: Thursday, December 6, 2007

If flying down a snow-covered hill on an inflated tube is your idea of a winter thrill, a Bethel Park facility soon will meet that need for speed.

Cool Springs Golf and Family Recreation Center is working toward opening a "SnoZone" on its 44-acre site off Hamilton Road.

Buzz Pasquini, operations and marketing director, said the addition should be open Dec. 21.

"Of course, opening the SnoZone on time will depend on the weather," he said.

The SnoZone is moving to Bethel Park from its location on Route 88 in Finleyville.

Plumbing and electrical work for the snow-blowing equipment is under way, and will be followed by excavation.

Snow tubing will be available this winter, with a separate snowboarding site being considered.

The snow-making equipment is mobile, so it can blow snow on different areas of the course as needed, Pasquini said. Specialized snow tubes are included in the admission prices. Two lifts with tow ropes will return tubers to the top of the hill.

"My teenage children have always gone to the SnoZone in Finleyville and will probably go to the new one at Cool Springs," said Andy Amrhein of Bethel Park.

Bob Salera, head golf pro at Cool Springs, said snow tubing will generate income for the facility during slower cold months. "We needed something to get us through the winter," he said.

SnoZone reservations can be made now. Pasquini said, "School, church and community groups already have booked times in January and February."

Hours of operation will vary each day of the week, with special hours on holidays. Group rates, season passes and parties will be available.

Cool Springs' batting cages, driving ranges and miniature golf are the usual summer activities. A heated tee line on the lower driving range is open all year.

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