STEUBENVILLE, OHIO—On May 1, Franciscan University of Steubenville revealed plans to build a permanent skating rink at Franciscan Square this fall. The Rink at Franciscan Square is a community outreach of Franciscan University for the benefit of the Ohio Valley community as well as its students, faculty, and staff.

“This will greatly impact the existing Franciscan Square businesses and restaurants, create new jobs, and be a draw for new retail businesses that are considering our location,” said Phil Rook, director of Real Estate Development at Franciscan University. “It will benefit the community on multiple levels, and we are excited to see how it will continue to shape the development.”

In 2020, a temporary skating rink at Franciscan Square was created to provide the local community with outdoor recreation. The Rink at Franciscan Square will be permanent and double the size of the original rink. Operated through Good Venture Properties, it will also offer promotions in collaboration with Franciscan Square’s tenants: The Best Western Plus Franciscan Inn, Bennigans, Rubi’s Pizza and Grill, and Brooklyn Bagel on the Square.

“We are excited to offer the ice rink at Franciscan Square,” said Father Dave Pivonka, TOR ’89, president of Franciscan University. “My hope is that this rink will bring together our students and local families. We are so grateful for our numerous partners and benefactors who make this possible, especially Trinity Health System for their continued partnership.”

“Being a part of our community at large is something Trinity Health System holds as most important,” said Matt Grimshaw, CEO of Trinity Health System, a principal sponsor of the new venture. “This partnership with Franciscan University is one way we are putting our community first. We are grateful for the opportunity to have a combined vision for the future of those we have been called to serve.”

Tom Gentile, president of the Franciscan’s Community Relations Board, said, “The rink is going to be amazing. It is just one more example of all the wonderful things Franciscan University of Steubenville brings to our community.”

“The Rink at Franciscan Square was a much-needed bright spot for our community in 2020,” said Franco Carapellotti, Fraspada owner and developer of Franciscan Square. “We’re thrilled to have it back this year as a permanent fixture. We’re grateful for the hard work put into making this happen, both by Franciscan and the supportive community. We’re eagerly looking forward to seeing everyone at the Square this winter.”

Joe Luckino, owner of Cedar One Realty, Fraspada’s partner in Franciscan Square’s development, agreed.

“It’s awesome to see this type of investment in the community,” he said. “It will be a focal point for kids and families to enjoy. As well, it is a draw card for other businesses to circle around for future development on the Square.”

Construction is expected to begin May 15. The Rink at Franciscan Square is scheduled to open in November and operate through February each year.