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Council hears feasibility study warning of ice-rink shortage and economic losses
Summary
Council members said a feasibility study shows a pressing need for more ice sheets; speakers warned that facility shortages have already cost the region events and room nights and urged continued study and planning.
Council members used their remarks on Feb. 10 to flag a regional shortfall in ice-rink capacity and the economic consequences of lost tournaments and events.
Council member Miller summarized findings from a feasibility study conducted by CSL and Discover Kalamazoo, saying the region has a "dire need for ice" as rinks close or change management and local users face displacement. Miller said the study’s data will be posted for public viewing and highlighted both local recreation needs and the economic benefits of hosting events.
Miller cited a report indicating roughly $12,000,000 in economic activity tied to ice events in the previous year and said the community lost about 2,085 room nights because available ice time was insufficient. "So even with what we had available to us, we are we were short, and now we're gonna be extremely short," Miller said.
Why it matters: Council members said a loss of ice facilities would displace local teams and reduce tournament-driven tourism and business for hotels and restaurants.
Next steps: The feasibility study will be posted for public review; council members said they will continue discussions about how to meet facility needs across the county.
