“Enhance Escanaba is working hard to ensure our kids can skate outside this November,” said Karen Moore, president of the organization whose goal it is to improve and beautify the city. “The refrigerated ice rink is very close to becoming a reality.”

However, it’s now up to the public to carry out the last steps.

The total cost of the unit — a 50- by 100-foot skating rink produced by Iron Sleek — and its installation in Escanaba’s downtown park, including utilities, will be about $250,000.

The first $100,000 was pledged; afterwards, an online fundraiser on Patronicity launched to collect the final $150,000. But contributors from the public only need to supply $75,000; the other half will be provided by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) if the necessary sum is reached by the end of this month.

Young members of the Hornets youth sled hockey team prepare to play during a team practice in Addison, Illinois in February 2014. Sled hockey allows people who can't use traditional skates to play the game. An organization in Escanaba is working to build an accessible ice rink that would allow for sled hockey, which is currently plyed in Marquette through the Superior Alliance for Independent Living (SAIL). (AP Photo/Martha Irvine)

“We have until June 30 to raise $75,000 through Patronicity,” Moore clarified. $40,363 of that amount has been raised so far. “It will be matched by a grant from the MEDC. Our first hurdle was accomplished by raising $100,000. We have almost reached our second goal, but time is getting short.

“Please help. Every donation moves us closer to our goal.”

People may donate by visiting Patronicity.com/icerink or scanning the QR code accompanying this article. Enhance Escanaba is a registered 501(c)(3), Tax ID 87-1546937, so donations are tax-deductible.

Enhance Escanaba thanks all the donors who have contributed so far.

“We anticipate smiling faces in Ludington Park next winter,” Moore said.

This QR code directs to the page where donations from the public are matched by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for the acquisition and installation of a handicap-accessible ice rink in Escanaba.

The style of rink chosen will be accessible to wheelchairs and may be visited by sled hockey players who currently use facilities in Marquette.

Once the rink is purchased and brought to Ludington Park, staff from Iron Sleek will train city employees in its maintenance.