Orono Ice Arena Plans Second Rink With $15M Community Funded Expansion
Why Orono Needs Another Ice Sheet
Orono Ice Arena is facing extreme demand. With more than 600 skaters sharing one rink, ice time is tight and families are often forced to travel to neighboring cities. Compared to nearby communities, Orono has nearly double the skaters per ice sheet. That imbalance is driving the push for expansion.
What The Expansion Includes
The proposed project would add a second ice rink and expand the building to roughly 55000 square feet. Plans include shared locker rooms between both rinks, new concessions, a larger entry and lounge area, training rooms, flexible classroom space, and kid friendly areas. The goal is to create a true two rink campus that supports both hockey and community use.
How It Will Be Paid For
This is where Orono stands out. The rink is operated by a nonprofit and the expansion would be funded entirely through private donations. Organizers are pursuing naming rights and legacy sponsorships rather than city bonds or tax increases. The nonprofit recently purchased adjacent land for $1.15 million to make the project possible.
Why This Matters To The Community
The arena was originally built in 1997 using community fundraising and even major renovations in 2017 were privately funded. Supporters argue that without this expansion, Orono youth hockey would struggle to survive locally. Keeping sports close to home helps families, reduces travel, and strengthens community ties.
If you are watching how youth sports facilities shape Minnesota neighborhoods and property demand, this is one to follow. Projects like this influence where families choose to live and put down roots.
