Updates to the Herb Brooks National Hockey Center (HBNHC) have been completed on time and under budget, ensuring the facility will be ready for St. Cloud State University Men’s and Women’s Hockey home games this season.
Both ice sheets have been modified to new dimensions, and the dasher boards and spectator netting were replaced to improve player and guest safety. The ice rink cooling plant was upgraded for the first time since the building opened in 1989.
New LED lighting was installed in both rinks, and other upgrades in temperature controls and HVAC were completed to make the HBNHC more energy efficient and environmentally friendly.
Elrosa-based general contractor Breitbach Construction Co. led coordination on the $11 million project, while JLG Architects of Minneapolis were in charge of design. Over 16,000 on-site trade hours were required to finish the project.
Over 98 percent of the construction dollars were awarded to Minnesota companies, supporting local businesses, jobs and communities throughout the state.
“We are proud that so many local companies were able to be involved in completing this project,” SCSU President Dr. Gregory Tomso said. “They did an excellent job, and we hope this investment from the state can benefit the economic development of our region for years to come.”
Upgrades were possible due to Higher Education Asset Preservation and Replacement (HEAPR) funds appropriated by the state legislature. HEAPR money is awarded for maintenance and preservation of existing facilities at the seven universities and 26 colleges in Minnesota State.
A ribbon-cutting was held on Oct. 1 to honor the improvements. State representatives Dan Wolgamott and Bernie Perryman and state senator Aric Putnum each spoke at the event, highlighting the work across political lines to guarantee funding for a project that would be beneficial for the St. Cloud community and region.
“Beyond our Division I teams, these updates are also huge for partners that use our rinks like St. John’s University and St. Cloud Youth Hockey,” said Director of Athletics Holly Schreiner. “While there are many updates that our fans won’t see, these facility improvements ensure the HBNHC will continue to play a vital role in our community.”
The facility will first be in action on Oct. 9-10 as Men’s Hockey hosts former WCHA foe Michigan Tech.
