By: Sarah Wright | Troy Times | Published July 2, 2024
TROY — Community members celebrated the grand opening of the new skating rink and pavilion at Jeanne M. Stine Community Park, on the southeast corner of Town Center Drive and Civic Center Drive June 13.
The project has been in the works for around five years, after residents in a survey expressed an interest in the city providing a space for public gatherings and amenities for more winter recreation opportunities.
The 8,500-square-foot rink provides room for roller skating and ice skating, and the pavilion provides outdoor space and amenities for public gatherings.
“The plan for this has always been a four-season space,” Troy Public Works Director Kurt Bovensiep said. “We don’t have a traditional downtown, and the survey results showed that the community also wanted winter recreation.”
The total for the project is estimated around $10 million, with assistance coming from the city’s capital fund, the American Rescue Plan Act, and the Troy Community Foundation.
C.E. Gleeson Constructors of Troy was contracted for the construction of the pavilion, and Serv-Ice Refrigeration of Northville was contracted to make the ice-skating ribbon. Construction began in 2023.
Attendees at the grand opening could try out the new rink with their own skates and enjoy live music, local food trucks and free ice cream.
The event started with a speech from Troy Mayor Ethan Baker, who acknowledged the hard work that the city put in to make the park space possible.
“It goes back many, many years of people who have had ideas for this project,” Baker said. “Of course, the Troy Community Foundation played an integral role of making this happen, and I’m really honored that we have many of them here tonight. I know they are equally excited about this as we are at the city.”
Baker reiterated how the space is meant to serve the community.
“This is a community gathering place,” Baker said. “We got you here gathered tonight. We’re really excited that you’re here. This park functions just like any of one of our other parks. It’s open. You can see there’s no gates to get in. This is your place to use. This is your community place.”
Stine was also recognized for her work with the community. She served as mayor for Troy for many years on top of working with multiple other community organizations. The Jeanne M. Stine Community Park, where the pavilion and rink are located, was established in 2022 and currently provides space for a farmers market and other spring/summer activities.
“I have never been so honored in my life, and I’ve been on City Council since 1975 and became the mayor in 1992, and all the time that I did this, it was a great learning experience,” Stine said. “I learned so much about so many. The people of Troy have been so warm to me, and it’s just been great friendship for all the people of Troy for me, and I’m honored and I’m humbled. … I hope that I have served the residents of Troy well enough to be deserving of this, because it’s so very special.”
Those working within the Parks and Recreation Department said they are excited for and are already letting the public know about some of their upcoming events, including Family Roller Nights, which were planned for 5-7 p.m. on June 19, as well as July 10 and 24, and Aug. 7 and 21, and the Troy Midsummer Bash July 13.
“We’re so excited that this is finally open in time for July, because it’s Parks and Recreation Month,” Troy Recreation Supervisor Allyson Leach said.
For more information, visit rec.troymi.gov.