The ice skating rink was brought to the Fulton Mall through the Downtown Fresno Partnership in an effort to get people downtown. Some businesses along the Fulton Mall have benefited, including Fresno Brewing Company. "It's definitely a whole family affair. People are coming out, you know, date night. They'll come in have a drink, go skating, come back, you know. It's been fantastic so far," said owner Ephiram Bosse.
Still, most businesses along the Fulton Mall remain closed after dark despite the new addition. California Pants is one of the few retailers open past 6 p.m. The manager isn't impressed. "Nothing's changed. It's the same. I don't see any difference," said Ali Nour.
Kate Borders with the Downtown Fresno Partnership says the effort is working. She calls year one a learning experience for the partnership, the businesses, and visitors. "You don't do anything for today. You do it for, 'How is this going to affect us in the future?' And I think this will have a positive effect for many years to come," said Borders.
