Messier, Hughes join project for NY skating center
Messier, Hughes join project to turn former NYC armory into giant ice skating center
This aritist's rendering provided by the New York City Mayor's Office shows the proposed Kingsbridge National Ice Center to be constructed in the Kingsbridge Armory in the Bronx borough of New York. The project is to include nine rinks on two different levels. One rink would be designed to host hockey tournaments and ice shows, with seating for 5,000 people. (AP Photo/New York City Mayor's Office)
NEW YORK (AP) -- Two celebrity athletes are part of a project to turn an empty New York City armory into a massive ice sports center.
The plans include former New York Rangers captain Mark Messier, a Stanley Cup winner, and figure skater Sarah Hughes, who won an Olympic gold medal in 2002.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg detailed the plans Tuesday for the Kingsbridge Armory in the Bronx.
The project is to include nine rinks on two levels. One rink would be designed to host hockey tournaments and ice shows.
The city plans to lease the building to a private development group that involves Messier and Hughes.
Construction is expected to start next year with $275 million in private money.
Officials say it could draw 2 million visitors a year.
