STEUBENVILLE, Ohio. — As spring approaches, the Franciscan Sq. Rink is closing for the season, marking the tip of a profitable winter for the favored native attraction. Organizers mirrored on the achievements of the rink’s second 12 months, noting a big enhance in guests.
“It did nice. It is the second 12 months that we’re right here, and it did completely superior,” stated Philip Rook, Director of Actual Property at Franciscan College of Steubenville. “We beat our expectations once more, like we did final 12 months, so 1000’s and 1000’s of individuals. I feel we had over 10,000 skaters, and 15,000-20,000 individuals coming to the world for the rink.”
The rink provided conventional open skating, events, and “pond hockey” alternatives, which Rook attributed to its success and powerful group ties.
“I feel it is a terrific place for the group. We actually had much more regional guests this 12 months,” Rook stated. “I feel a part of that’s simply the homey-feeling, the Hallmark-type ambiance that we’ve got, particularly at evening with the lights on. The eating places round, free parking, all that type of stuff actually makes it a terrific place for households to return.”
Rook emphasised the optimistic impression the rink has had on the native financial system, notably for close by companies.
“The eating places right here on the sq. simply did phenomenal. Jimmy John’s is model new, they did nice. Rubi’s Pizza, The Harp & Behavior, they only actually noticed a surge of their gross sales with the rink proper right here,” Rook stated. “The whole lot from sizzling chocolate to drinks and pizza, only a nice ambiance for individuals coming to the world.”
Because the season concludes, Rook assured that the sq. will proceed to supply family-friendly points of interest, with plans to carry again the turf discipline and host concert events and occasions this summer season. The rink’s final day is Sunday from midday to 7 p.m., with operations set to renew in mid-November 2025.
