MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Work continues on the Morgantown Ice Arena in White Park. The work is funded in part by the BOPARC share of the five-year levy.
Fourth Ward councilor and BOPARC Board vice president Jenny Selin says they have conducted structural tests on the beams and found one slight problem that can be repaired. The tests were needed to determine if they could be used as part of the proposed major renovation of the facility. Selin says there have been extensive repairs to the plumbing system this summer.
She says the work is all part of a concept plan that was developed a little more than a year ago.
“We chose a certain concept that included this sheet of ice we have now, plus a studio sheet, so sort of a half-sheet of ice that is very desirable apparently for rentals,” Selin said.
Selin says officials conducted research to determine the viability of the small-sheet concept.
She says this is all preliminary work. “All of these things come together to the point where we’re looking forward to actually getting in line with some final plans so we can move this forward.”
According to the city’s website, the facility will be open beginning November 8 on Fridays from 7 to 9 p.m., Saturdays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. and Family Day will be on Sundays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
The future renovation may force city officials to adjust the hours of operation or even close temporarily.
The 45-year-old facility seats about 450 people and in addition to the public, the facility is used by the WVU ACHA Division I men’s ice hockey team.