Addressing the issue of limited available ice time at Howelsen Ice Arena, the city has approved a fundraising agreement with the Steamboat Springs Youth Hockey Association and Steamboat Skating Club to add a second sheet of ice.

The agreement was approved during the May 5 City Council meeting.

“For years, we’ve seen demand outpace available ice time,” said Parks and Recreation Director Angela Cosby. “This partnership reflects a shared commitment to expanding opportunities for youth athletics, community recreation and year-round programming.”

Efforts to add a second rink began over a decade ago and came on the heels of multiple advisory groups and commissions stating the need for more ice. The need is driven by youth hockey, figure skating, curling, adult leagues and public skating.

“It’s something we’ve genuinely needed. With limited practice days many of us in the Steamboat Skating Club have struggled to stay consistent and continue improving,” said skater Shayelin O’Connor.

“In fact, some of us have even felt our skills slipping without enough time on the ice,” added skater Olivia Rosink.

The project is expected to add an NHL-sized ice sheet and a separate practice ice sheet. Additional locker rooms and storage space are also planned.

“I think this is a great demonstration of a public-private partnership that can work,” said Youth Hockey Association Board President Kerry Shea. “I look forward to rolling up our sleeves and getting to work.”

The city has committed $2 million in 2026 capital funds and invested $4.5 million in infrastructure at the arena.

The Skating Club and Youth Hockey Association have gathered $4 million in donation commitments.

“When the city of Steamboat puts money up, there are people in our community that step up to match it,” said City Council member Michael Buccino. “We’ve seen that happen more than once and I think that was the catalyst in getting the second sheet of ice.”