After nearly 10 years of discussion and receiving a $20 million bond, the construction of the Prairie Lakes Ice Arena is underway in Watertown, South Dakota.
With the goal of hosting state and regional tournaments, the arena will contain two NHL-sized ice rinks with the potential to include a third rink. The main rink will have a capacity of 1,523 spectators. JLG Architects Senior Principal, Tom Betti, compared it to shrinking down the Xcel Energy Center – home of the Minnesota Wild. The second rink will be a practice rink that will accommodate 250 people.
The main rink will be three feet lower than the main floor, which provides a great view of the ice and maximizes space for the team rooms. On the second floor will be seating, a walking track, and a media box that can be utilized for filming games or DJs during open skate.
In addition to the two ice sheets, the public areas will include amenities such as a concession stand, skate rental, room for a pro shop, and rentable spaces for conferences and private parties. The objective is to create a community space that can be used by anyone at any age.
