There have been some questions and comments about the proposed community center, specifically why is the city building a hockey facility? It’s understandable that some might see it this way, but the intention behind this project has always been to create a space that serves everyone, regardless of age or stage.
As a member of the Parks and Rec Task Force from the beginning, I assure you that the goal was to recommend a facility that serves all ages and interests. It’s not just a hockey facility; it’s a true community center where people can gather, stay active, and participate in various activities.
The renderings may not fully capture all the activities available, so below are details about the spaces and the core sports offerings. This facility is designed and proposed to adapt to the evolving needs of the community over time. For instance, while tennis isn’t currently listed, future demand could lead to its incorporation. The goal is for the facility to remain flexible, ensuring it continues to meet the interests of all residents as sports and activities change.
- Field House:
- Sport Courts – Seating up to 500 people
- Basketball – 2 full courts or 3 half courts
- Volleyball – 5 full courts
- Pickleball – 9 full courts
- Turf
- Soccer – 1 compact indoor soccer field (85′ x 180′)
- Lacrosse – 1 compact indoor lacrosse field (85′ x 180′)
- Football – 1 compact football field (80 yard field)
- Baseball/Softball – batting, throwing, fielding, pitching practice
- Walking/running track – 6.25 laps to a mile
- Sport Courts – Seating up to 500 people
- Arena Buildings:
- Ice
- Hockey – 2 NHL size rinks
- Figure Skating – Either rink
- Open Skate – Either rink
- Event Space – Concerts, Exhibitions, Conventions, etc.
- Arena 1 – 17,000 sq ft of space with seating capacity 3,000 + 500 standing room
- Arena 2 – 17,000 sq ft of space with seating capacity 2,000 + 400 standing room
- Graduations – Large enough to support local high schools
- Ice
- Communal Spaces:
- Community/Party Room(s) – 3,400 sq ft of space that can be divided into 3 smaller rooms
- Large room capacity 150 people
- Small room capacity 50 people
- Restaurant/Bar – to be leased to future business
- Concession Stand
- Locker Rooms – 16 total for various teams, clubs, and sports
- Community/Party Room(s) – 3,400 sq ft of space that can be divided into 3 smaller rooms
I also want to highlight the versatility of the arena buildings and event space. While these spaces can certainly host graduations for area schools, they offer many other possibilities. With large, open areas ideal for viewing and entertainment, the arenas are designed to accommodate the transport and setup of any type of equipment. From concerts, conventions, and car shows to a variety of sports events, these spaces can support a wide range of activities. Tournaments and meets for gymnastics, dance, wrestling, and cheerleading are just a few examples of potential future uses.
As demonstrated, this proposed facility offers much more than just hockey. It has been thoughtfully designed as a flexible space to support a wide range of sports and activities, including dance, walking, running, and more. Most of the facility can support multiple sports and activities (including the hockey rinks) and that was intentional in the proposal. Whether it’s a 2-year-old looking to play indoors during the winter or someone over 80 seeking a safe space for walking, this facility is envisioned to meet the diverse needs of the community, accommodating all ages and interests.
I’m sure some people are reading this post asking, why not a pool? Yes, I have that as a question and that will be a future post.
In closing, I would like to add my kids don’t play hockey, and building a hockey-specific space was never my goal.
