Braemar Arena now expects the East Rink to reopen for play on Dec. 7, nearly three weeks earlier than the previously projected Dec. 26 date. The improved timeline follows an accelerated construction schedule to address permafrost discovered beneath the rink floor.

December is one of the busiest months at Braemar, with multiple hockey tournaments, a holiday figure skating show, and a full schedule of practices and games. We recognize that the construction delay has created significant scheduling challenges for our Edina user groups, and we appreciate their patience as we work to get the rink back in service as soon as possible.

“Like everyone, we hated having to pause work because of the permafrost issue,” said Braemar Arena General Manager Jesse Buchholz. “We worked with our contractors and staff to optimize the schedule, including evenings and some weekends, to make it possible to get the East Rink up and running 19 days earlier. It might not seem like a lot, but it’s meaningful to our user groups.”

Upcoming East Rink Construction Milestones

• 28-day curing period following the Oct. 28 concrete pour
• Install dasher boards and glass
• Install the rubber flooring
• Set up the new chiller
• Make ice and paint the rink surface

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