HOLLAND, Mich. — After nearly a century of anticipation, the city of Holland is on the brink of unveiling its long-awaited ice rink, set to bring year-round activities to the community. The project, which began construction in April, is nearing its one-year completion cycle.
The ice rink, with an estimated cost of $11 million, has been largely funded through private grants, including a notable $1 million donation from former educator Frank Kraai, a passionate supporter of the initiative. Of the total cost, $7 million came from private donors.
Designed in a circular shape, the rink will feature a refrigerated ice ribbon that connects to a scenic pond, providing an ideal setting for skating right in the heart of downtown. Visitors will be able to enjoy the ice, shop, and take in all that the vibrant city of Holland has to offer.
"I'll be honest with you, we've had a lot of attention on this project, but when you see kids, grandparents, and people of all ages enjoying the rink, it makes all the hard work worthwhile," said one of the rink’s supporters.
The ice rink is not just for skating. Thanks to generous funding, it will also host curling, a winter Olympic sport that will add another exciting feature to the downtown area. The rink’s versatility will allow it to host events year-round, including a nature-based playground and serve as a central location for the annual Tulip Festival.
Located at the corner of 6th Street and College Ave, the ice rink is scheduled to open to the public next year, just in time for the winter season.