The RM of Hanover Council officially approved the Grunthal Arena Renewal Project at this week’s regular Council meeting, with work on the project immediately underway.
The project marks a major investment in one of the community’s most important recreational facilities. The Grunthal arena has served residents and visitors for more than 50 years since opening in March 1968, and this renewal project will modernize the facility while preserving the existing rink surface.
Planning for the project has been underway for the past couple of years, including facility assessments, design work, and funding applications. With Council approval now finalized, work on the multi-phase project is set to begin immediately, with all phases expected to be completed by fall 2027.
“This project has been in the works for a while, so it’s rewarding to finally see construction beginning,” said Jason Peters, Manager of Recreation and Community Services. “The arena is a major part of community life in Grunthal, and these improvements will help support local recreation and events for many years to come.”
The total project budget is approximately $8.1 million and includes a $3.1 million grant from the Province of Manitoba through the Manitoba Growth, Renewal and Opportunities for Municipalities Grant Program, along with RM of Hanover funding and community donations. The RM of Hanover sincerely appreciates the support already received from individuals, families, businesses, and community partners whose generous contributions have helped make this project possible.
Designed by Verne Reimer Architecture, the project includes major upgrades and additions throughout the facility, including:
- A significantly expanded south entrance and lobby addition
- Improved accessibility and public gathering spaces
- Expanded indoor spectator viewing areas
- New and updated dressing rooms
- A redesigned concession and food service area
- A new ammonia-based ice plant replacing the aging Freon system
- Electrical and mechanical infrastructure upgrades
- A new tractor shed addition and new Zamboni
The new lobby and public space addition alone will add nearly 10,000 square feet to the facility and is designed to improve accessibility, comfort, traffic flow, and the overall experience for arena users, families, and visitors.
Construction will occur in multiple phases beginning in spring 2026. Early phases include the purchase of a new Zamboni, construction of the north-end tractor shed addition, and installation of the new ice plant. Work on the new lobby and dressing room addition will follow, with the new ice plant expected to be operational for the 2026/2027 hockey season.
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,” added Peters. “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.”
Donations toward the arena renewal project are still being accepted, and opportunities remain for community members and businesses to support this important investment in Grunthal.
