Skaters Test 'Synthetic' Ice Surface On Site Of New Red Wings Arena
DETROIT (WWJ) -- Ice skating is not something you would normally think of taking place outdoors in September, but as hockey fans from around the Detroit area get ready for Ilitch Holdings to break ground on a new arena that will reside closer to the city's two other sports venues, they have a chance to skate on the spot that the Red Wings will eventually call their home.
Sitting in the space where the ice rink is planned to go in the new arena -- scheduled to open in 2017 -- is a synthetic ice surface which will give fans a chance to experience the Ilitches' vision for the site. A part of the District Detroit Block Party, skating on the synthetic ice rink is just one of many events to take place on the site over the weekend.
"We've got skates to rent for free," an event spokesman said. "Come rent skates and they can skate on a synthetic ice sheet which is exactly where the ice sheet will be when the stadium is built."
Skating on the synthetic ice is free to the public and complimentary skate rentals will be provided. Detroit Red Wings Experience games will also be set up on-site for fans to enjoy. The synthetic ice will be available from 6-9 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on weekends.
A limited number of free parking spots will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis in a designated lot at the intersection of Cass Avenue and Temple Street.
The ceremony was held on Thursday afternoon just west of Woodward Avenue, between Sibley Street and Sproat Street. Gov. Rick Snyder, Mayor Mike Duggan and Christopher Ilitch, president and CEO of Ilitch Holdings, are all spoke about the looming project and what it will bring to the city.
