Arena projects nearing completion

City News February 13, 2026

The upgrades to the City Arena are nearing their final stages with contractors planning to complete the new refrigeration system for both the Nystrom and Colstrup rinks in early March.

Approved by voters in a 2024 referendum, the refrigeration system is the largest part of the project. It will serve both rinks and improve energy efficiency. The refrigeration system and new Colstrup rink floor together cost $5.4 million after $2.4 million in federal energy incentives.

Once the permanent chiller is running, crews will connect the Nystrom rink to maintain ice through March for the figure skating show, hockey camps and other events. The city will then stop leasing the temporary chiller in place since October.

Work is wrapping up on the Colstrup rink, including installation of subfloor heat to prevent permafrost damage to the rink floor. Ice is expected to be installed in April, allowing the rink to operate year-round.

The arena projects included the following improvements, which have all been completed:

• Repairing support beams
• Upgrading the electrical system throughout the facility
• Replacing the floor of the Colstrup rink
• Replacing the lighting with LEDs
• Expanding the lobby
• Replacing other equipment or fixtures

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