Historic Edmonton hockey arena undergoing $11 million renovation
A historic Edmonton hockey arena is closed for a $10.9 million renewal project, with work on the Clare Drake Arena set to wrap up next spring.
The University of Alberta said it’s investing in Clare Drake Arena to address several infrastructure issues, including failed sanitary lines beneath the floor, an aging arena slab, and maintenance work at the ice plant.
The project includes $5.9 million in institutional funding and up to $5 million in Capital Maintenance and Renewal funding from the Alberta government.
Located on North Campus, Clare Drake Arena has been home to Golden Bears Hockey since November 1960 and Pandas Hockey since 1997.
Formerly known as Varsity Arena, the arena was renamed in 1990 in honour of longtime Golden Bears coach Clare Drake, who led the team to six University Cup championships and 17 Canada West conference titles over his 28-year tenure.
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The closure also means both varsity hockey programs have temporarily relocated to the Silent Ice Center in Nisku for the 2026-27 Canada West season. The facility will also serve as their practice rink.
The Silent Ice Center features two NHL-sized ice surfaces, with its main rink accommodating 1,800 spectators. The venue also has loge seating, skyboxes, four private suites, and the Summit Restaurant.
“With change comes opportunity, and we are thrilled to bring Golden Bears and Pandas Hockey to a world-class facility like the Silent Ice Center,” said Leah Pezer, director of athletics at the University of Alberta.
“This state-of-the-art venue not only provides our student-athletes with an outstanding environment to train and compete, but it also allows us to further connect with and engage the hockey community in South Edmonton and beyond.”
The venue has already hosted major sporting events, including two Grand Slam of Curling Tour stops, and is home to HC Edmonton of the Junior Prospects Hockey League.
Work on the Clare Drake Arena is expected to wrap up in March 2027.