Upgrades to the Herb Brooks National Hockey Center (HBNHC) are underway and are planned to be completed by the fall.
The $12.9M construction project will reduce the ice sizes for both hockey rinks, replace a failing ice rink cooling plant and make behind-the-scenes updates that will have long term benefits for the facility.
These 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.
St. Cloud State University President Dr. Gregory Tomso believes the investment will have a positive impact on St. Cloud State and the local community.
“I want to thank representative Dan Wolgamott, representative Bernie Perryman and senator Aric Putnum for their legislative support in making this long-needed project a reality,” Tomso said. “These upgrades will ensure the facility remains a fixture in the community for generations to come.”
JLG Architects, recognized as one of the nation’s top experts in ice arena design, is leading the upgrades through its specialized Sports Studio. The firm has guided the project from early planning and design through construction documentation and bidding.
JLG is currently providing construction oversight and administration services in close collaboration with general contractor Breitbach Construction Co. Breitbach Construction will oversee project coordination, scheduling and quality control while working closely with trade partners to ensure a safe and efficient construction process.
The current construction timeline anticipates work to be completed by the start of the SCSU Men’s and Women’s Hockey regular seasons in the fall.
The HBNHC will be closed to the public until construction is completed.
