City Of Grand Rapids: City, DDA Plan To Host Public Ice-Skating Season At Van Andel Arena

Press release from the City of Grand Rapids:

December 08, 2021

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The City of Grand Rapids and the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) plan to partner to host a public ice-skating season at Van Andel Arena. The plan is subject to subject to City Commission approval on December 14.

The indoor facility, 130 Fulton St. W, was chosen as an alternative skating location while Rosa Parks Circle restoration continues. Supply chain issues have prolonged construction at the park.

The DDA today approved repurposing its $40,000 line item intended for Rosa Parks Circle ice skating operations to aid in funding the skating season at Van Andel Arena. The Grand Rapids City Commission will consider a similar request for the City’s portion of funding at its Dec. 14 meeting.

“We know how important the winter skating season is to the community,” Parks and Recreation Director David Marquardt said. “Although it won’t be in the usual location, we are confident Van Andel Arena will offer a great ice-skating experience to make new memories this season. We are grateful for the DDA’s continued partnership in this treasured Grand Rapids tradition.”

“We are excited to be working with City of Grand Rapids and Convention Arena Authority to find a new way to offer skating this season,” Tim Kelly, Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc. president and CEO, said. “While we know the community loves the rink at Rosa Parks Circle, Van Andel Arena is an ideal venue to host a revised skating season. Not only is it equipped with an existing rink, but it can accommodate many skaters the same time while allowing for appropriate distancing. We look forward to welcoming the community back Downtown to skate.”

Open skate dates, time slots, COVID-19 protocols and other season details will be announced by the City at a later date. Information regarding the skating season at Van Andel Arena will be announced on the Rosa Parks Circle website and Facebook page.

This press release was produced by the City of Grand Rapids. The views expressed here are the author’s own.