Enhance Escanaba Leads Crowdfunding for Accessible Ice Rink Project

Revolutionary Ice Rink Project Set to Transform Escanaba’s Winter Recreation

LANSING, Mich. – A groundbreaking initiative led by the nonprofit Enhance Escanaba aims to establish a universally accessible refrigerated ice-skating rink at Ludington Park. This ambitious project seeks funding through a newly launched crowdfunding campaign announced today by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and Enhance Escanaba, utilizing the Patronicity platform.

If the campaign successfully raises $75,000 by June 30, the project will receive a matching grant through MEDC’s Public Spaces Community Places (PSCP) program, with an additional $25,000 available through the PSCP Universal Design and Accessibility Funding Extension. Details on the project and donation options are available at patronicity.com/icerink.

“A refrigerated ice rink built with the principles of Universal Design and Accessibility will allow for seasonal recreation for all, despite the changing temperatures of recent winters,” commented MEDC Regional Development Managing Director Paula Holtz. “We are pleased to provide resources for this effort through our Public Spaces Community Places program.”

Funds from this initiative will be directed towards completing the refrigerated rink at its prime location in Ludington Park. The rink, which is removable by April, is designed to function from November 1 to April 1, thanks to advanced refrigeration technology. It features full rink walls akin to hockey rinks and a refrigerated surface maintained by chillers, accompanied by a six-foot walkway and ramp for easy access.

Escanaba has been without an outdoor rink for several years due to inconsistent winter temperatures. The new refrigerated rink promises a reliable skating surface even in milder weather, offering residents a beloved winter pastime and attracting visitors from surrounding areas. Enhance Escanaba envisions this as a catalyst for further community engagement and winter events.

“With community support, we’re turning a seasonal activity into a lasting community asset that strengthens Escanaba for generations to come,” affirmed Karen Moore, Board President of Enhance Escanaba. “We have met the initial funding requirements so moving into the next step Enhance Escanaba will be eligible to receive a matching grant from the MEDC’s Public Spaces Community Places to reach our goal! The matching grant is a great catalyst for this project that will bring people and the community together.”

The Public Spaces Community Places initiative, a collaboration between MEDC, the Michigan Municipal League, and Patronicity, enables Michigan residents to crowdfund local projects with the incentive of MEDC’s matching grants. Since its inception in 2014, the program has matched over $14.7 million in funds for over 421 projects, with a 97% success rate in meeting fundraising goals.

“Parks are treasured spaces in a community, and the addition of a removable refrigerated ice-skating rink to Ludington Park will make it an even more dynamic space for residents,” said Dan Gilmartin, Executive Director and CEO of the Michigan Municipal League. “As Michiganders, we appreciate more than most when we have an opportunity to leave our homes in the long gray months of winter for recreation and a chance to connect with neighbors.”