The Ontario Center rolls out new attraction, wave of updates

ONTARIO — What began as a setback has quickly turned into momentum for a new and exciting addition at The Ontario Center.

Originally planning to install a synthetic ice skating rink, The Ontario Center recently announced it will instead bring a roller rink to the building for the community to enjoy.

“It’s thrilling to create a space where people can come together, have fun and make lasting memories,” said Crystal Tolliver, general manager for The Ontario Center, formerly known as the Richland Mall.

“Knowing that this rink will offer an experience unlike anything else in the area makes this project especially rewarding.”

Roller rink replaces ice rink — welcoming all ages

Tolliver said the change in plans came after she and the construction superintendent visited a facility to evaluate the synthetic ice product.

“During our assessment, we found that the surface did not provide a satisfactory glide experience and lacked the aesthetic quality we were aiming for,” Tolliver said. “Additionally, the required maintenance was higher than anticipated.”

(Story continues after picture. Construction crew works on roller rink inside The Ontario Center. Credit: Hannah Martin)

She added these factors led the team, RCS Construction and Bruns Construction Enterprises to believe a roller rink would be a much more enjoyable experience for the public.

“Our goal is to create an experience that encourages community, enjoyment and memorable moments for everyone who visits,” Tolliver said.

“What excites me most is the opportunity to bring a completely new and unique experience to The Ontario Center—something that will appeal to families, friends and visitors of all ages.”

Over time, other improvements could include expanding the rink, and allowing for there to be a room guests can rent for parties.

The rink will be located in a unit adjacent to the center court, providing easy access and visibility for visitors.

The initial rink is a test rink, Tolliver said. If it becomes a success and people enjoy it, it will be expanded, but it will begin in a 40 x 100 location.

“We are expanding this space to create a welcoming and enjoyable environment that can comfortably accommodate everyone,” Tolliver said.

The target opening date for the roller rink is currently early to mid-November, though Tolliver noted unforeseen delays are always possible with construction.

“We are incredibly excited about the roller rink and what it will bring to The Ontario Center,” she said. “We can’t wait to see families and friends come together and make this a new favorite destination in the area.”

More fun on the way: Boardwalk Market and candy expansion

Along with the new roller rink, Tolliver was excited to announce more changes coming to The Ontario Center.

One of those updates is The Boardwalk Market. Tolliver said the market will offer small business owners the opportunity to rent a kiosk for $500 per month, while transitioning into a storefront in the same space for $750 per month.

“The company we work with, Bruns Construction Enterprises, has a Boardwalk in Celina,” Tolliver said. “We wanted to try and replicate that with this space.”

Walking into the location, guests will immediately be transported into what feels like a real boardwalk. Epoxied sand will be at the entrance, with bird statues in the windows making for an immersive boardwalk-feel.

Tolliver said ocean sounds and soft music will also play to imitate the experience of walking by the ocean.

“This is a great way for new and starting-out businesses to take that chance—for only $500 per month,” she said.

She added they already have vendors registered for The Boardwalk Market, but are still looking for others to join.

Another update includes an expansion with Yummy Treats, Candy and More, a classic candy store where guests can find chocolate, candy and sodas. The expansion will introduce more international candies and even a root beer bar.

“We can get root beer by the keg and have it on tap,” said John Haupt, owner of Yummy Treats, Candy and More.

He added that the store will eventually offer more flavors of soda pop as well, allowing for endless float combinations.

Additions will include hard-packed ice-cream, which Haupt said will all be local from Marion and Bucyrus.

His second location has been in the mall for over a year, with his first location in Marion.

An arcade for game lovers is also underway. The space will feature claw machines, pool tables and more, along with a section in the back where monitors will be mounted on the wall for those who enjoy computer gaming.

Tolliver said she plans to brings a festivity of events to The Ontario Center for the holiday season.

Dueling Pianos will kick off their holidays events where guests can purchase a ticket that will include live music, light refreshments and community interactions.

Tolliver said she is just getting started and looks forward to bringing The Ontario Center to life and creating a space for all to enjoy.

(More photos from upcoming changes at The Ontario Center. Credit: Hannah Martin)