Spokane Valley council agrees to negotiate lease for donor-backed two-sheet ice arena

Spokane Valley — The City Council on Sept. 30 authorized staff to continue negotiations over a proposed two-sheet ice arena on an 11-acre parcel north of Sullivan Park after a lengthy public input session and technical presentation from city staff and Innovia Foundation.

City Manager John Homan and Innovia representative Shelly O'Quinn described the project as a donor-funded proposal to build two NHL‑size rinks, spectator seating and a conditioned mezzanine. Innovia and a private benefactor would finance and construct the facility with GARCO as a design/construction partner; Innovia proposes operating the arena or creating an operating entity. Council members were asked to direct staff to work out the details of a 99‑year ground lease and potential city infrastructure contributions.

Why it matters: Council members and dozens of residents said the facility would expand low- and no-cost ice access for youth hockey, figure skating, sled hockey and other programs at a time when demand outstrips available ice time in the region. Staff and consultants said the proposal could generate an estimated 6,000–9,600 hotel room nights by year five and $4 million–$6.9 million in annual economic impact if the pro forma holds.

Key details and city costs - Project footprint: the arena and immediate site are planned to occupy roughly 11 acres north of Sullivan Park; renderings presented show two regulation rinks and space for a potential hotel and commercial pad. The city acquired the parcel from the Washington State Department of Transportation years ago and has been planning park and utility service for it. - Construction estimate: Innovia’s materials and the consultant pro forma cite construction ranges between about $42…