PRESS ANNOUNCEMENT: The Arena was awarded $1,000,000 to complete a $3.7 million capital campaign to fully restore the aging facility. Funding from MVYouth will enable the ice making compressor and sub-ice slab to be replaced as well as the dasher boards and glass around the rink. Flooring to cover the rink area during non-skating months will also be purchased, enabling other indoor sport usage and community events. The entry vestibule, lobby and bleachers will be renovated and modernized to improve the hospitality and ADA compliance of the facility. A new pro-shop and offices will be added, as well as a commercial kitchen and concession stand. A 2,500 square foot multipurpose room will be added to the back of the facility.

In the last two years, the Arena has made considerable progress to strengthen the organization. They hired a General Manager, Peter Lambos; developed an “Administrative Support Agreement” with the Y; participated in a “Sports Alliance” committee to analyze indoor space needs; hired an accountant; installed software to streamline scheduling, financial management, and website content; replaced the roof of the facility; and raised $2.6 million for the project from private donors, foundations and the community.

According to the Arena, renovating and expanding the facility will increase the numbers they serve by 20%. They will accomplish this by: attracting the community to a more hospitable and attractive facility; offering indoor space to other sports groups; offering indoor space for parties and other community gatherings and hosting more community fundraising events. In the spring and summer when the ice is drained, the facility will be available to host concerts, trade shows and dances which will generate revenue.