Hockey arena planned for Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Conn.

Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Conn., has announced plans to build a nearly 4,000-capacity, $60 million hockey and skating arena on its West Campus.

The university says the facility, scheduled for completion in 2022, will have many amenities for students and guests, including a pro shop, beer gardens, food venues, suites, meeting rooms and offices.

“The facility will be home to our Division I men’s and women’s hockey programs, our nationally ranked figure skating team and our men’s club ice hockey team," says university president John J. Petillo. "It is the continuation of a robust, multiyear building and expansion program reflecting our significant growth, appeal and national status."

In addition, the building will be used to host special events such as guest lectures, concerts, convocations and other activities, including ice skating time available to students, faculty, staff and community members.

“This arena will be the Division I intercollegiate skating crown jewel and a standout facility in the Northeast,” says Jim Barquinero, senior vice president, enrollment, student affairs & athletics. “In addition to providing a sophisticated and beautiful home venue for our teams, it will serve our entire university community and residents throughout the region."

Petillo says the new arena will also be used as a classroom for Sacred Heart students studying in the areas of sports communication & media, sport management, and hospitality.

The arena will be constructed on Sacred Heart's West Campus, home of the Jack Welch College of Business & Technology, the Isabelle Farrington College of Education, a wide range of innovation and technology resources, a 27-room guest facility and a variety of other  departments and programs.

The architects are JLG Architects and The S/L/A/M Collaborative.