In 1996, DSGW collaborated with the City of Grand Rapids to capitalize on one of its most valuable assets: the local ice arena. The partnership aimed to transform the existing facility into a versatile, community-focused space. The centerpiece of this ambitious project was the construction of an Olympic-sized indoor ice complex, housed within a pre-cast concrete structure.

Building upon this initial success, in 2023 DSGW and the City of Grand Rapids continued their partnership to further enhance the community building. Upgrades to the commons areas significantly improved the space’s flexibility, allowing it to serve as community meeting rooms during non-hockey seasons. Additionally, the installation of an elevator ensured accessibility for all.

A substantial portion of the project, approximately 80%, focused on addressing the deteriorating infrastructure of the existing wood barrel vault roof. This involved replacing the roof entirely and simultaneously upgrading other critical components of the facility, including the main ice sheet, ice plant systems, and the arena’s HVAC system.