ANAHEIM : Eisner Says Rink Symbolizes Disney Link to City

Arriving on the ice riding a Zamboni ice groomer, Walt Disney Chairman Michael D. Eisner took center stage Wednesday for the official unveiling of Disney Ice, a new community skating rink opening in downtown Anaheim.

“Obviously, this has been a big month for Walt Disney Co.,” said Eisner, referring to the entertainment giant’s recent merger agreement with Capital Cities/ABC. “But today holds a special significance for me.”

The rink, which will open to the public Oct. 1, will be the practice facility for the National Hockey League’s Mighty Ducks. But most important, Eisner said, it will be the home of the nonprofit youth program Disney GOALS.

“It’s an opportunity for kids to get off the streets for a different kind of combat . . . with referees and rules,” he said. “It’s a positive and active diversion.”

GOALS (Growth Opportunities through Athletics, Learning and Service) is based on a highly touted project in New York City’s Harlem and gives children access to equipment, coaching and entertainment.

The 90,000-square-foot rink at Lincoln Avenue and Clementine Street was financed by Disney on land donated by Anaheim.

It was designed by architect Frank O. Gehry, who said at Wednesday’s ceremony that his creation is “aesthetically warm, like rinks in Canada.”

Anaheim Mayor Tom Daly said the rink will be crucial in revitalizing the city’s ailing downtown, which has undergone major redevelopment in recent years.

“It means we have a new piece of heart in the heart of the city where it needs it most,” Daly said. “It will draw visitors to downtown Anaheim.”

Eisner said the new rink is a symbol of Walt Disney Co.’s commitment to Anaheim, including the often-delayed expansion of Disneyland.

“We’ve been in a long development stage, and I think it’s coming to the fruition stage,” he said.

“We are moving along in our efficient yet slow way.”

In January, Disney officials announced that they would not build a $3-billion resort next to Disneyland, settling on a scaled-down version instead.

Eisner and other Disney officials would not say Wednesday when their plans for the alternative project would be unveiled.

“I wish we could put a time frame on it.” said David Malmuth, a vice president of Disney Development Co.

“We’re working on it. It’s a very high priority, and there is a lot of momentum,” he said.