(When it gets much colder) ice skating to return to Mill Creek Park

YOUNGSTOWN — Thanks to funding from the Julianna Kurinka Trust, Mill Creek MetroParks announced this morning that it is beginning preparations for the re-introduction of a favorite winter pastime - ice skating at Mill Creek Park’s James L. Wick Jr. Recreation Area.

The existing sand volleyball courts will serve as the platform for the ice skating as they were originally designed to do, using the existing court lighting and seating.

The Wick Recreation Area on the city’s West Side is designed to be the MetroParks’ outdoor family adventure destination.

Besides ice skating, there will be the usual sled riding, a fire pit and an upgraded concession stand with more food and beverage options.

The start and continuation of this winter recreational opportunity will be weather dependent as the skating venue will not be supported by a refrigeration system.

Skaters will need to bring their own skates. There is no charge for ice skating or sled riding.

“Generations of Mahoning Valley residents fondly remember the splendor and grandeur of ice skating at the Wick Recreation Area. It is our hope that future generations of park visitors will recall this re-introduced recreational opportunity in the same way,” said MetroParks Executive Director Aaron Young.

For questions and more information about ice skating at the James L. Wick, Jr. Recreation Area, call Mill Creek MetroParks at (330) 702-3000.