HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The City of Huntsville has officially approved a $44.6 million expansion of the Huntsville Ice Sports Center (ISC), a move poised to transform the facility into a premier destination for ice sports in the southeastern United States. The project, which will double the center’s current size, is scheduled for completion by early 2027.
The expansion will add 118,822 square feet to the existing 83,934-square-foot facility, introducing a host of new features designed to accommodate the growing demand for ice sports in the region. Key additions include a dedicated curling facility with five lanes, a new arena seating 1,254 spectators, expanded locker rooms for both men and women, ADA-compliant elevators and seating, and enhanced common areas with updated concessions and support spaces.
City Administrator John Hamilton highlighted the pressing need for the expansion, noting that the current facility is operating beyond capacity. “The ISC is so busy that we’re booking rink time in the middle of the night, leaving the general public squeezed out,” Hamilton said.
The Rocket City Curling Club, which has grown to 140 members since its founding in 2018, currently has limited access to the ice, occupying only about 3% of the weekly schedule. Club President Matt Smith emphasized the significance of having dedicated curling ice, stating, “They have done everything possible to make this hands down the best curling facility in the South.”
The expansion is expected to not only alleviate scheduling constraints but also position Huntsville as a hub for regional and national curling events. Stephen Johnston, Ice Chairman of the Rocket City Curling Club, expressed enthusiasm about the potential to host regional events and Olympic qualifiers, noting that the dedicated curling lanes will significantly enhance the quality of play.
Beyond curling, the new arena will support a variety of ice sports, including hockey and figure skating, and is anticipated to boost the local economy by attracting tournaments and competitions. ISC Executive Director Dita Dotson-Bowser remarked, “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.”
The project also includes thoughtful design elements such as a second-floor multipurpose warm lobby, new locker rooms, and ADA-compliant features to ensure accessibility for all patrons. An outdoor beer garden and expanded lobby space are also planned, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
While the expansion has been met with widespread support, some city officials have raised concerns about the allocation of resources. Council Member Michelle Watkins pointed out that while Huntsville is advancing in various sports amenities, it still lacks competitive basketball facilities compared to neighboring cities like Albertville and Cullman.
Construction is set to commence soon, with the city contracting ARCO/Murray National Holdings, Inc. for the project. The expansion is a significant step in Huntsville’s ongoing efforts to enhance recreational opportunities and solidify its reputation as a leading city for ice sports in the South.