CITY HALL — The City Council signed off Wednesday on the Blackhawks' new community practice rink on the Near West Side.
The council formally approved zoning changes that clear the way for the Hawks to begin construction on the $50 million structure, which will include two rinks, one for the Hawks to practice on, and will be open to the public 90 percent of the time, according to Hawks Chairman Rocky Wirtz.
The Plan Commission signed off on the project last month.
The Hawks will use the rink for practice, but also expect the facility to help increase interest in hockey in the city. The team has established deals with Chicago Public Schools and the Park District to provide free equipment and ice time to young players.
It's expected to be completed late next year.
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