The former Bank America building at 9616 17th SW in White Center is being converted into a retail skate shop and studio space by the owner of next door Southgate Roller Rink. Josh Rhoads who has owned the rink since 2011 said, "Eventually, we plan to make it a retail skate shop with a mini rink for small kid's parties, beginners learning to skate, and rhythm skaters to utilize as a studio space for practice.  We initially took over the space to secure the parking.  We had a great relationship with the bank for 10 years as we operated during their off hours.

But it will take some work to make it happen. The exterior painting is mostly complete with a modern charcoal with green trim color, matching the rink's exterior theme.

"We're a ways off to opening for the public. Maybe late summer," said Rhoads

Retail skating supplies will be the main use of the space. Retail skate equipment and apparel and custom skate mounting are planned.

But there are other aspects of the space that made it attractive for the rink. "We've found a large demand for small private get togethers and lots of requests for skate equipment and custom skate mounting."

The best part? Now the place where checks once bounced will be home to a much happier experience

"My 7 year old daughter has been testing out the bounce house we put in there. We think it may be a great addition for the 10 and under crowd."