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Outdoor Ice Skating Rink To Reopen In Downtown Flint After 25 Years

FLINT (AP/WWJ) - An ice skating rink in downtown Flint that's been closed for more than two decades is set to reopen next month thanks to a partnership between two local universities and a foundation.

The Flint Journal reports that the rink — which is  adjacent to the University Pavilion on Saginaw Street — will reopen to the public Jan. 2 with a grand opening event.

The partnership between the University of Michigan-Flint, Kettering University and the Hagerman Foundation came after Kettering learned it could no longer create a public ice rink at Atwood Stadium.

"As we continue to find ways to enhance campus, opening this rink is a simple way to have a dramatic impact," UM-Flint Chancellor Sue Borrego said in a statement. "We know as a university that we must be an academically excellent institution and also offer a thriving, diverse student experience."

Flint Mayor Karen Weaver also applauded the effort.

"This is a great asset to our community. It offers families a chance to have fun and show off all the great things our city has to offer," Weaver told the UM-Flint News.

The rink first opened in 1985 as part of the Water Street Pavilion. It closed prior to the University of Michigan-Flint's purchase of the property in 1990.

Following the grand opening, the rink will be open to the public for free on Wednesday evening and Saturday and Sunday afternoons through March.

The rink also will also host special events and will be available for rent.

TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report

 

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