Montclair State Ice Arena Announces Major Cooling System Upgrade
Montclair State Ice Arena is set to undergo a major upgrade to its refrigeration plant and rink floor systems beginning in April 2026. This multi-million-dollar project will modernize critical infrastructure, improve efficiency, and help ensure the arena remains a home for skating, hockey, and community programs for decades to come.
The project will replace the arena’s aging refrigeration plant with a modern CO₂ natural refrigerant system, transition the rink floor system from brine to glycol, and repair portions of the rink subfloor. Together, these improvements will strengthen reliability, improve environmental performance, and modernize the facility’s infrastructure.
“This is an important investment in the future of the arena,” said Rita Mitchell, Regional General Manager for Sports Facilities Companies (SFC). “Our goal is to make sure Montclair State Ice Arena continues serving the community for the next generation of skaters. This project builds on years of planning and collaboration with the university and facility experts, and we’re excited to bring it to completion and position the arena for the future.”
Why the Upgrade Is Needed
The current refrigeration plant at Montclair State Ice Arena is approximately 30–35 years old, which is typically the point when facilities begin planning major upgrades.
In addition to age, the system relies on R22 refrigerant, which is being phased out due to its environmental impact. Rather than continuing to repair an aging system that will eventually become obsolete, the arena is proactively transitioning to a modern system designed for long-term sustainability.
“The current system has served the arena well for decades, but it has reached the end of its life cycle,” said Chris Knapp, SFC’s Regional Manager of Ice Operations. “Moving to a modern CO₂ system allows us to operate more efficiently, reduce environmental impact, and invest in equipment that will support the rink well into the future.”
Another key part of the project is converting the arena’s secondary refrigeration system from brine to glycol.
“Brine systems are salt-based and can be very corrosive over time,” Knapp explained. “Switching to glycol helps reduce wear on piping and equipment, which improves reliability and helps lower long-term maintenance needs.”
What Work Will Be Completed
The renovation will include several major upgrades to the arena’s infrastructure. Work will include:
- Removing the existing refrigeration plant and installing a modern CO₂ natural refrigerant system
- Converting the secondary refrigerant system from brine to glycol
- Repairing leaks within the rink floor, refrigeration piping
- Removing portions of the current rink floor
- Replacing sections of the subfloor with a new sand floor system
- Maintaining and enhancing the arena’s heat recovery systems to improve efficiency
- Completing additional interior touch-ups while the facility is temporarily closed
Together, these improvements will modernize the arena’s core systems and strengthen long-term reliability.
The project will be completed in partnership with CIMCO Refrigeration, one of North America’s leading refrigeration engineering firms and a long-time specialist in ice arena systems. CIMCO will lead the installation of the new refrigeration plant and help guide the transition to the upgraded rink floor system.
“CIMCO brings a tremendous amount of experience with ice arena refrigeration systems,” said Chris Knapp. “Having a partner with that level of expertise helps ensure the projecat is done right and sets the arena up for long-term success.”
A Long-Planned Upgrade
Planning for a modernization of the arena’s refrigeration system has been underway for years.
Jim Cain, former President of Firland Management, has been involved with the facility since 2019 and continues to consult on the project as it moves forward.
“This upgrade has been on our radar for a long time,” Cain said. “When you manage an ice facility, you’re always looking ahead at the lifespan of the refrigeration plant and planning for when those major investments need to happen. It’s great to see the project coming together in a way that sets the arena up for the next generation.”
Cain worked closely with arena leadership and the university over the years to evaluate long-term infrastructure needs and help guide the planning process that ultimately led to the current upgrade.
Today, he continues to support the project in a consulting role, helping ensure the transition to the new system is successful.
What This Means for Skaters and Programs
Because the project affects both sheets of ice, the arena will temporarily adjust operations during construction.
Current estimated timelines are:
- April 1 – approximately the third week of June: The facility will operate on one sheet of ice
- Late June – August 1: The arena is expected to be fully closed
- Beginning August 1: One sheet of ice is expected to reopen
- Early October: Both sheets are expected to be fully operational again
All dates are estimates and may shift slightly as construction progresses.
The arena team has been working closely with user groups and programs to manage schedules and keep them as smooth as possible throughout the project timeline.
Investing in the Next Generation of Skaters
While infrastructure upgrades are rarely visible to the public, they play an essential role in keeping ice arenas operating safely and efficiently.
For Montclair State Ice Arena, this project represents a long-term investment in the facility’s future and the community it serves.
“Projects like this are about protecting the future of the rink,” Mitchell said. “We want to make sure families, skaters, and teams can continue to enjoy this facility for many years to come.”
Follow the Progress
As work begins, Montclair State Ice Arena plans to share updates and behind-the-scenes looks at the project through photos and videos whenever possible.
From ice removal to rebuilding the rink floor and eventually making new ice, the renovation will mark an exciting step forward for the arena.
Updates and reopening information will be shared through our website and social media channels.
Project at a Glance
What’s Happening to the Rink at Montclair State Ice Arena:
The arena’s refrigeration plant and rink floor system are undergoing a significant upgrade.
Why This Upgrade Is Happening:
The current system is more than 30 years old and uses R22 refrigerant, which is being phased out due to environmental regulations.
How the Upgrade Process Works:
Our team of experts installs a modern CO₂ refrigeration system, converts the secondary system from brine to glycol, and replaces portions of the rink floor infrastructure.
Current estimated timelines are:
April 1 – approximately the third week of June: The facility will operate on one sheet of ice
Late June – August 1: The arena is expected to be fully closed
Beginning August 1: One sheet of ice is expected to reopen
Early October: Both sheets are expected to be fully operational again
