ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – An Escanaba nonprofit is hoping to give locals a longer ice skating season.
“The City has not been able to have ice rinks for a long time,” said Karen Moore, President of Enhance Escanaba. “We used to have three or four rinks, but of course the weather was different. It takes a consistent single-digit cold to form the rink, and then it needs to be in the teens to maintain the rink. The last time we had a rink, it only lasted a couple weeks.”
A little over one year ago, Enhance Esanaba came up with the idea of installing a refrigerated ice rink in Ludington Park. Chillers would keep the rink cool, and the rink would be operational in temperatures under 50 degrees. Moore says skaters could enjoy the rink from November 1 to April 1.
Enhance Escanaba aims to raise $250,000, which would be enough for a 50- by 100-foot rink. Because the rink will be accessible, the group has applied for funding through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
“MEDC wants to be the last $150,000,” Moore explained. “Right now, we’re in the process of raising the first $100,000. When that happens, then we’re going to go ahead with that.”
Community members have an opportunity to show their support for the proposed rink this weekend. On Saturday, March 22, Enhance Escanaba is hosting an open skate at the Wells Sports Complex from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Freewill donations for the rink will be accepted.
Moore believes a refrigerated ice rink will be a great addition to Ludington Park.
“Skating was such a part of our lives years ago,” she said. “Everybody has a skating story, and we want to generate new stories. We want to encourage, maybe, winter festivals and other types of activities, so hopefully this will be a start.”
The Wells Sports Complex is located at 1647 17.4 Road in Escanaba. For more information about the open skate fundraiser or Enhance Escanaba, visit enhanceescanaba.com, follow the group’s Facebook page, or call (906) 399-3237.
