The sound of skates cutting across the ice will return to the Oak Lawn Ice Arena later this month, as the facility reopens Jan. 14 following an extensive renovation aimed at improving performance, safety and the overall experience for skaters and fans.
The reopening marks the end of a major construction project that replaced the arena’s ice surface and mechanical backbone, while also refreshing public spaces throughout the building. Hockey and skating programs are resuming, and registration is now open through the Oak Lawn Park District.
Public skating will resume Jan. 19 with an open skate scheduled from 1:15 to 2:45 p.m. Admission will cost $8, with skate rentals available for $5.
The most significant upgrade is the installation of a new international-sized ice surface measuring 100 by 200 feet. Crews removed the previous slab and rebuilt the rink from the ground up, installing a new concrete floor system designed to support consistent ice quality and long-term durability. New dasherboards, seamless glass and protective netting now surround the rink.
Behind the scenes, the arena’s refrigeration system was completely replaced with modern, energy-efficient equipment. The upgrades include new ammonia compressors, glycol pumps and a digital control system, along with added safety features such as leak detection and an emergency shower. Infrastructure improvements also extended beyond the rink, with replacement of the sanitary main in the arena area and new electrical feeders for the refrigeration system.
Visitors returning to the facility will notice visual and functional updates throughout the arena. Fresh paint, new lobby graphics, upgraded seating and rubber flooring leading to the rink were added as part of the project. The penalty boxes and scorer’s table were moved to the opposite side of the ice, creating more open space near the lobby and improving sightlines for spectators.
Park District Executive Director Tom Hartwig said the renovation was designed with both longevity and the community in mind.
“This was about making sure the Ice Arena continues to serve Oak Lawn families and athletes well into the future,” Hartwig said. “We’re excited to open the doors again and see the building full of energy.”
The Oak Lawn Ice Arena, located at 9320 S. Kenton Ave. next to the Park District’s administrative offices, operates year-round and serves hockey teams, figure skaters and recreational skaters. The facility can accommodate up to 1,100 spectators and includes a large viewing platform overlooking the rink.
In addition to ice programs, the arena offers party rooms for birthdays and private gatherings, locker rooms, vending machines and private ice rentals. A concession stand serving lunch and dinner items will be open during select hours.