Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1544942
V O L . X X X I I N O. X I I ยง 2 J U N E 1 , 2 0 2 6 24 MEREDA 2025 NOTABLE PROJECTS Shawn Walsh Hockey Center and Harold Alfond Sports Arena ORONO T he $40.1 million renovation and expan- sion of the University of Maine's Shawn Walsh Hockey Center and Harold Alfond Sports Arena represents the most significant trans- formation of the state's only NCAA Division I hockey venue in its 46-year history. Designed by WBRC in collaboration with sports facility spe- cialist Crawford Architects and constructed by PC Construction, the project redefines the Alfond Arena complex as a unified, high-performance ath- letics and community destination while preserv- ing its iconic identity. At the core of the project is a comprehensive reinvestment in the Shawn Walsh Hockey Center, delivering state-of-the-art environments that sup- port the full spectrum of student-athlete develop- ment. New locker rooms for both the men's and women's programs establish equity in space, qual- ity, and experience. A dedicated player development center integrates strength and conditioning, sports medicine, and recovery functions, while expanded equipment rooms, team lounges, a 42-seat film room, and renovated coaching and staff offices cre- ate a cohesive and efficient performance ecosystem. Within Alfond Arena, renovations focused on elevating the fan experience while improving accessibility and operational flow within the his- toric structure. A new entry sequence and expanded concourse introduce dedicated areas for conces- sions, retail, and ticketing, along with the UMaine Hockey Hall of Champions, reinforcing the pro- gram's legacy while enhancing game-day engage- ment. ese interventions improve comfort, visibil- ity, and circulation for a broad spectrum of users, from students and alumni to families and com- munity visitors. Sustainability was a guiding principle throughout the project, aligning with the University's campus- wide environmental goals. By prioritizing renova- tion and targeted expansion over replacement, the design preserves embodied carbon while extending the life of a culturally significant facility. Energy- efficient systems, improved building envelope per- formance, and careful material selection contrib- ute to reduced operational demand and enhanced occupant health in a building that operates year- round at high intensity. Equally critical was the project's execution. Construction was carefully phased around aca- demic schedules and active hockey seasons, allow- ing the facility to remain operational throughout. is approach minimized disruption to athletes, preserved revenue-generating events, and main- tained the arena's role as a central gathering place for the university and broader community. e project encompasses approximately 31,000 square feet of renovations and 21,000 square feet of new construction. Completed with nearly 30,000 labor hours and zero recordable safety incidents, it reflects a high level of coordination and com- mitment across the entire team. The revitalized complex strengthens the University of Maine's competitive position in Division I hockey, enhances the fan and commu- nity experience, and ensures that Alfond Arena remains a vital cultural and athletic landmark for decades to come. CLIENT: University of Maine GENERAL CONTRACTOR: PC Construction ARCHITECTURAL TEAM: WBRC Inc. with Crawford Architects ENGINEERING TEAM: WBRC (structural, civil, mechanical), ME Engineers (electrical) ADDITIONAL SUPPORT STAFF: 49 Degrees (interior branding and signage, wayfinding) and WJHW (audiovisual) P H O T O S / R YA N B E N T