The end of 2006 saw the opening of a new $1 million outdoor ice rink in Clark Park. It is the only one of official competitive size in Detroit and is open 7 days a week.
Clark Park Coalition (CPC) feels “very fortunate” for the gift from Wayne County that afforded the rink’s rebuilding, according to executive director Anthony Benavides. The administrations of county executives Ed McNamara and Robert Ficano as well as County Commissioner Ilona Varga worked to have the funds allocated to the park.
CPC organized in 1991 in response to the planned closure of the rink and, after their initial winter season, “the kids kept coming,” remembers Benavides. They now also provide opportunities for hockey, softball, baseball, volleyball, soccer, golf and tennis and have expanded beyond sports to include educational programs like tutoring and computer training. They also take children on field trips and provide free lunches over the summer. Approximately 1,000 children are reached by CPC’s programs each year.
On Jan. 23, CPC will celebrate the rink's grand opening and their 15th anniversary from 5-8 pm. Ficano will "cut the ribbon;" Varga, Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick and Governor Granholm are other honorary guests expected at the event.
As for the ice rink, it is open Monday-Friday from 3-8 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday from noon-6 p.m. The rink is for open skating until 6 p.m. and for drop-in hockey games until the rink closes. There are learn-to-skate-sessions on weekends for youth and adults. Skating is free for children; adults are charged $3 for open skate and $5 for hockey.
Source: Anthony Benavides, Clark Park Coaltion
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