Grunthal Arena Renewal Project

The Grunthal arena has been an important part of the community for more than 50 years, opening in March1968. Starting spring 2026, work will begin to upgrade the facility using a multi-phase approach, with all phases expected to be completed by fall 2027.

While the rink itself will remain unchanged, the project will modernize and improve many of the facility’s supporting spaces and infrastructure. The upgrades are designed to improve accessibility, comfort, and the overall experience for all arena users.

The project has been designed by Verne Reimer Architecture and construction will be completed by September 2027.


Architect rendering of exterior arena upgrade


Project Details

Lobby and Public Space

A significant part of the project is the redevelopment of the south entrance and lobby area. The new addition will increase the size of the lobby from approximately 24 feet deep to nearly 100 feet deep and will add close to 10,000 square feet of new space to the facility. This will provide better accessibility and traffic flow, additional gathering space, improved washrooms, and expanded indoor viewing opportunities.


Spectator Viewing Area

The project includes an upgraded spectator viewing area designed to improve the experience for families, visitors, and fans attending games and events. Plans include expanded indoor viewing capacity, improved sightlines, additional seating areas, and better circulation throughout the public areas of the arena.


Dressing Rooms

The arena renewal project includes four new dressing rooms along with updates to portions of the existing dressing room areas. Once complete, the facility is expected to include six to seven dressing rooms through a combination of new and repurposed spaces.


Food Services

The project includes a redesigned concession and food service area within the new lobby addition. The updated layout is planned to improve accessibility, customer flow, and overall functionality during games, tournaments, and community events.


Ice Plant and Infrastructure

A new modern ammonia-based ice plant will replace the arena’s aging Freon system as part of the upgrade project. The new system is expected to improve energy efficiency, reliability, and long-term sustainability while reducing the facility’s environmental footprint.

The project also includes upgrades to aging electrical and mechanical systems throughout the arena.


Zamboni and Tractor Shed

The project includes the purchase of a new Zamboni and the construction of a new tractor shed addition on the north side of the facility. The new layout will improve arena operations and help address existing safety concerns by reducing equipment traffic through pedestrian and dressing room access areas. 

The tractor shed addition will also provide dedicated storage and operational space for the facility.


Project Timeline

Spring 2026

Summer 2026

  • Installation of new ice plant 

  • Demolition of existing lobby

  • Construction begins on the new lobby and dressing room addition

Fall 2026

  • New ice plant operational for the 2026/2027 hockey season

  • Completion of north-end tractor shed addition


Fall 2027

  • Completion of new lobby, food services area, and dressing room addition


Arena Availability During Construction

As the Arena Renewal Project progresses, certain areas of the existing facility may be temporarily unavailable at different stages of construction. The RM of Hanover is committed to keeping the community informed throughout the process by providing regular updates on construction progress, facility availability, and any temporary closures or disruptions.

Communication with user groups, visitors, and the public will remain a priority so everyone can plan and adjust accordingly during construction.

We appreciate the community’s patience, flexibility, and cooperation as we work through this exciting transformation. While there may be temporary inconveniences along the way, the result will be a beautifully renewed arena that will serve the community for decades to come.


Project Budget

The total project budget is $8.1. Funding includes a $3.1M grant from the Province of Manitoba through the Manitoba Growth, Renewal and Opportunities for Municipalities Grant Program as well as community donations and RM of Hanover. 


Community Support and Donations

The Rural Municipality of Hanover would like to sincerely thank the individuals, families, businesses, and community partners whose generous contributions are helping support and improve an important part of community life in Grunthal. 

Donations toward the arena upgrade project are still being accepted, and there are still opportunities for community members and businesses to be part of this important project. If you would like to contribute, please contact us at jason.peters@hanovermb.ca or call 204-346-7132.