A grassroots effort to upgrade the town skating rink is taking shape

FRANCONIA — A grassroots effort to upgrade the town skating rink is taking shape. John and Jennifer Opalinski, owners of The Dutch Treat Restaurant, are spearheading efforts to add a roof, refrigeration system, and solar panels to the open-air rink. The estimated $1.8 million project would be privately funded, with no taxpayer dollars. To cover $1 million of those costs, the Franconia Rink Project Committee last week applied for a $500,000 grant through the Northern Borders Regional Commission’s Catalyst Program, which requires an equal match. The Franconia Rink Project Committee will begin to accept cash donations later this year once its non-profit status is approved.