Planning underway for new ice rink and community facility at Sawyer Arena

The Parks, Recreation and Harbor Advisory Committee meeting held on June 12, 2025, in Bangor City focused on the development of new recreational facilities, particularly the addition of ice sheets and various amenities based on community feedback.

The meeting began with discussions about the proposed layout for the new facility, which includes two ice sheets. The larger sheet is designed to accommodate high school games and other major events, while the smaller sheet will serve additional programming needs. Committee members emphasized the importance of seating arrangements, ensuring that spectators have a good view of the activities.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the inclusion of an instructional kitchen, which has been successfully implemented in other centers. This space is intended for both children and adults, allowing for a variety of programming opportunities. The committee highlighted the need for dedicated spaces for childcare and multi-use activities, aiming to maximize natural light in these areas.

Locker room facilities were also a key topic, with discussions around the necessity for adequate space to accommodate multiple teams simultaneously. The committee noted that the current facilities are often overcrowded, and the new design aims to provide sufficient locker rooms, including those specifically for hockey teams. The plan includes features such as showers and separate areas for different sports.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of these developments to enhance community engagement in recreational activities. The committee plans to continue refining the design and will seek further input from stakeholders as the project progresses. Future meetings will focus on finalizing the details and ensuring that the facility meets the diverse needs of the community.