half a million dollars over the last decade—into park upgrades, utilities, and facility improvements. One amenity stands out as especially distinctive: the skating rink. Dating back to at least the World War II era, the facility has remained active through a city ownership and lease model that keeps it accessible. Recent investments have included HVAC, electrical, roofing, and flooring work—dollars the city does not expect to recoup directly, but which generate meaningful community returns. The rink hosts weekend skating, parties, and events, drawing visitors from outside the area and reinforcing Bicknell’s family-oriented identity. As Cullen reflects, this pattern is not new. Bicknell has long relied on community initiative—people stepping up, raising funds, doing the work, and sustaining local assets through participation. It is a model of community engagement that continues to support the city’s forward momentum. 97 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 01 BICKNELL, IN
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