Nearly 100 people gathered September 30 for a ribbon cutting, and more than 200 people November 8 to celebrate the grand reopening of the Bloomington Ice Garden. The celebration had something for everyone—open skate, two high school hockey games featuring Jefferson Girls vs. Armstrong, pictured above, and Minnesota artist Adam Turman on-site to talk about the new mural he created that celebrates winter and the spirit of community that BIG nurtures.
The $37.2 million renovation project delivered major updates, including a new ice system, accessibility improvements, renovated locker rooms, reconfigured rink space and new gathering areas.
Construction was completed on time and on budget, making BIG the first Bloomington Forward project finished. With nearly 500,000 visitors annually, the renovated facility continues to serve Bloomington families while attracting skaters and events from across the state and region.