‘Ice Sports Capital of the South:’ Huntsville approves major expansion of facility

HUNTSVILLE — Huntsvillians first laced up their skates in the Rocket City more than 60 years ago at the tiny “Ice Palace” off Governors Drive.

And now, the “Hockey Capital of the South” is aiming to become the “Ice Sports Capital of the South” with one of the largest ice multisports facilities in the South.

On Thursday, the city took strides toward that goal by approving a major expansion of the Huntsville Ice Sports Center at the City Council meeting.

Council approved a $44.6 million construction contract with ARCO/Murray National Holdings to begin work on the project, which will double the size of the facility to better serve the growing demand for ice sports and recreation.

Construction is expected to be completed by late 2026 or early 2027.

“The opportunity to grow exponentially allows more of our community to enjoy the wonderful world of ice sports,” said ISC Executive Director Dita Dotson-Bowser. “As Huntsville has grown, many of our programs have reached capacity, resulting in patrons being turned away. The expansion will not only help us meet our ice needs 350 days a year, but it will also increase our economic impact with the additional events the new arena and curling surfaces will allow.

“Our mission is to serve all ice sports with excellence, and this expansion helps us achieve that.”

In addition to expanding access to ice skating, hockey, and curling, the project is expected to enhance the city’s ability to host tournaments, competitions, and other events with positive economic impact.

“This expansion will provide residents of Huntsville with even more opportunities to enjoy recreation and organized ice sports,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle. “An expansion has been long overdue, and with the tremendous growth Huntsville is experiencing, this investment will help us continue building a strong, active, and connected community.”

Project features

• A second sheet of ice with five curling surfaces
• A new arena with 1,254 competition-ready spectator seats
• Expanded men’s and new women’s locker rooms
• ADA-compliant elevators and accessible seating throughout
• Warm room, coaching office, referee locker rooms
• Concessions, Grab & Go area, and expanded lobby space
• Ice mechanical plant, resurfacing storage, and laundry room

To learn more about the expansion and programs offered at the Huntsville Ice Sports Center, visit icesportscenter.com.