Lake Placid, N.Y.- The Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA) announced today the completion of its extensive remodel of the 1932 Jack Shea Arena in the Olympic Center. After a nine-month modernization project, the rink will welcome back the public on Friday, December 3 for skating.
The 1932 Arena is networked to the Olympic Center’s new refrigeration plant, which is designed to make ice faster, more reliably, and more efficiently than in past. The new rink includes sound-absorbing panels for better acoustics throughout the arena, a new dehumidification system, a new concession area, and new dasher boards. The rink can now be converted to either international or NHL size standards. All seats have been replaced in an attractive deep blue color, and new seating areas have been added to the balcony side of the stadium. The 1932’s ice is maintained with an electric Zamboni.
“The 1932 Jack Shea Arena was home to the first indoor skating events in Olympic history,” commented ORDA CEO & President Mike Pratt. “We are excited to reopen this iconic rink with its new improvements and continue building upon its remarkable heritage for decades to come.”
ORDA plans to expand its year-round ice programs, increase its number of hockey tournaments, and coordinate with the community, athletes, and local youth organizations to continue its development of sport and recreation for all levels of participants. “The reopening of the 1932 Arena is a major step in our complete revitalization of the Olympic Center. We look forward to showcasing this remarkable improvement to our communities, our guests, and the world,” said Olympic Center General Manager, Terry Buczkowski. Other Olympic Center projects included in the venue’s ongoing transformation include full upgrades of the 1980 Rink, the James B. Sheffield Speed Skating Oval, and all guest areas of the facility.
The new 1932 Arena will host short-track speed skating during the FISU World University Games in January 2023.