Petoskey, Mich. — Funding from the Great Lakes Sports Commission (GLSC) will help move the Petoskey Winter Sports Park closer to becoming a year round destination. GLSC has committed $150,000 to the City of Petoskey toward the funding for the necessary improvements to create an all-season pavilion.
A check presentation ceremony will be held today at 1 p.m. Participants include Michigan Senator John DaMoose, Petoskey Mayor John Murphy, city council members, GLSC Executive Director Eric Marvin, Petoskey representatives with the Petoskey city parks and recreation department and commission, friends of the Winter Sports Park and the Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce President Nikki Devitt
For nearly 120 years, Petoskey Winter Sports Park has been a landmark community space for families to enjoy a northern Michigan winter. Thirty years ago, a collaboration with the City of Petoskey and the Rotary Club of Petoskey raised the funds for building a lodge at the Winter Sports Park. Even then, there was a vision for the next steps in creating an all-season space that could be a destination for generations to come.
“The Winter Sports Park has impacted generations of outdoor enthusiasts in Northern Michigan,” said Kendall Klingelsmith, Petoskey City Parks and Recreation Director. “The support from the GLSC will help ensure the next generation will have the facility to create impactful, lifelong memories at the park!”
The estimated cost of the Winter Sports Park project is $1.1 million. Currently, $500,000 is needed to reach the fundraising goal. The city has been seeking grant opportunities and private donations through the Petoskey-Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation.
“The Petoskey Winter Sports Park is a beloved community asset that provides affordable outdoor recreation opportunities for all ages and abilities in a beautiful, natural setting,” said Eric Marvin, executive director of the Great Lakes Sports Commission. “It is a testament to the community’s commitment to maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle while embracing the winter season. The recreational venue is a true gem in our region, providing an array of exciting winter activities for individuals and families alike and we are proud to invest in its continued success and growth.”
The Petoskey Winter Sports Park project vision includes:
- Covered Open-Air Space
- Resurfacing the rink
- Addition of new boards
- Other Amenities: Basketball Hoops, Lacrosse/Soccer Goals, Multi-use Courts, Community Events
- Private Rentals
https://greatlakessportscommission.org/
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