FLINT, MI -- The University of Michigan-Flint, the Hagerman Foundation and Kettering University have partnered to reopen a downtown ice skating rink that's been closed for more than two decades.

University of Michigan-Flint officials say the rink, which is adjacent to the University Pavilion on Saginaw Street and hasn't been open for 25 years, will reopen to the public on Jan. 2 with a grand opening event.

Both UM-Flint and Kettering officials say the two universities will benefit from having the rink reopened.

"As we continue to find ways to enhance campus, opening this rink is a simple way to have a dramatic impact," UM-Flint Chancellor Sue Borrego said in a written statement. "We know as a university that we must be an academically excellent institution and also offer a thriving, diverse student experience."

UM-Flint purchased the property in 1990 and decided not to reopen the rink at that time because it was a potential liability.

University officials said they are still determining the cost and plans have not been finalized. Kettering University and the Hagerman Foundation are providing financial support to get the rink opened, according to a UM-Flint news release.

The Downtown Development Authority also is a partner and will be assisting with the ice installation as well as ice maintenance and snow removal, it says.

The partnership comes after it was discovered that Kettering could no longer create a public ice rink at Atwood Stadium because of the new turf.

In 2013, the Atwood property was transferred to Kettering. The university has since done several renovation projects to the property including fixing concrete steps, updating the northeast concession stands, restrooms and finally installing the turf earlier this year.

The new turf forced Kettering to install a drainage system underneath the field. Because of it, Kettering Communications Director Patrick Hayes said Atwood could no longer easily accommodate an ice skating rink without damaging the system.

Kettering President Robert McMahan said the partnership will be a good addition to downtown Flint.

"We are delighted to partner with UM-Flint to continue a great tradition -- free community ice skating in Flint during the winter," McMahan said.

The public is invited to attend the rink's grand opening celebration on Jan. 2. Starting then, the rink will be open to the public for free on Wednesday evening and Saturday and Sunday afternoons through March.

The rink first opened in 1985 as part of the Water Street Pavilion. It closed prior to University of Michigan-Flint's ownership.

The rink will also be available for rent and officials say they are planning to have special events and programing, including broomball tournaments for students.