Braemar Arena Is Getting a $45.2 Million Upgrade
One of Edina’s most iconic buildings is about to enter its next chapter.
The city is moving forward with a $45.2 million expansion and renovation of Braemar Arena, with construction potentially starting as soon as this summer.
The goal is simple.
Add capacity.
Fix long standing pain points.
Modernize aging systems.
Keep the soul of the building intact.
Full buildout is expected to wrap up in fall 2027.
What’s Being Added and Upgraded
This is a true expansion, not a cosmetic refresh.
You are getting:
• A brand new indoor ice rink
• A much larger lobby to reduce crowding
• Updated locker rooms and restrooms
• Major accessibility improvements
• New HVAC, refrigeration, ice making, and water filtration systems
Behind the scenes work matters here.
Better mechanical systems mean:
• Improved ice quality
• More consistent temperatures
• Better air quality
• Lower long term maintenance risk
These upgrades directly affect skaters, families, and tournament operations.
Fixing One of Braemar’s Biggest Problems: Congestion
Ask anyone who uses Braemar during peak hours.
Traffic flow has always been a challenge.
The project adds:
• A new central interior corridor
• A dedicated drop off and pick up lane
This separates pedestrian traffic from vehicle movement and reduces the bottlenecks that currently happen during practices, games, and tournaments.
Small design changes.
Huge day to day impact.
The West Rink Stays
This is the piece longtime Edina families care about most.
The historic West Rink is not going anywhere.
City leaders have compared its classic bowl style seating to places like Wrigley Field or Lambeau Field.
That old school feel.
The sightlines.
The atmosphere.
Preserved.
Modernized systems behind the walls.
Same character on the surface.
Why This Project Is Happening
Braemar Arena already sees more than one million visits per year.
Usage keeps growing.
Without expansion, the building simply cannot keep up.
This project is designed to:
• Handle future demand
• Support youth hockey, figure skating, and community programs
• Keep Edina competitive for tournaments and regional events
It is funded by the half cent sales tax Edina voters approved in 2022.
No special assessments.
No surprise levy spike.
Why This Matters Beyond Hockey
Facilities like this quietly shape communities.
They influence:
• Youth sports participation
• Family schedules
• Tournament tourism
• Nearby restaurant and retail traffic
• Long term neighborhood appeal
Strong community amenities help stabilize and support home values.
This is not just a sports project.
It is a long term quality of life investment.
Your Take
Would this change how often you or your kids use Braemar Arena.
Worth the price tag.
Or too much.
Tell me what you think.
