Ice Floor and Refrigeration System Renovation at Houston Field House

 

The Ice Rink Project is now in full swing! 

Beginning Monday, March 23rd, construction activity will enter a more intensive phase as we begin saw cutting and demolition of the existing concrete and steel ice floor. This process will involve heavy equipment and is expected to generate significant noise for approximately one week

What to expect:

  • Elevated noise levels during daytime hours from 7:30am – 4:00pm, with saw cutting commencing at or after 8am each morning.
  • Increased heavy equipment traffic in and around the Field House
  • Temporary impacts to nearby pedestrian areas and parking, including restrictions along the east end of B lot.
  • Gated access areas around the fieldhouse are now restricted, even if the gates are lifted for construction traffic. 
  • Athletic spaces will continue to be accessible from the north side only

Current Project Updates

Deconstruction work began on March 5. 

  • The glass and dasher boards were removed
  • The R-22 refrigeration systems were shut down, and the ice was melted out
  • The brine in the secondary cooling loop (circulating under the ice floor) was drained and removed
  • On Monday, the temporary ice mat and header piping was rolled up and has now been removed from the site

Work underway at this stage:

  • The spectator areas, as well as any exposed ceiling items, electrical and communication devices are now being covered for protection for the duration of construction
  • The rubber is being removed from the perimeter walkway
  • Next is the removal of the perimeter walkway 

We’ve included a few pictures so you can enjoy the progress with us as  we move forward.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to Liesl Hammer at hammea2@rpi.edu or Kristie Bowers at bowersk@rpi.edu.

HFH Ice Rink Replacement Logistics Plan 2

Rolling up the ice mat

Dasher board demo

Full view of ice mat

Ice melt with mat peeking through

Brine removal

 

 

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