About Facility
Yost Ice Arena, located on the University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor, is a historic and iconic facility dedicated to ice hockey and other ice sports. Opened in 1923 and named after legendary Michigan football coach Fielding H. Yost, the arena has undergone several renovations to maintain its status as a premier venue while preserving its rich history.
With a seating capacity of approximately 5,800, Yost Ice Arena provides an electrifying atmosphere for fans of the Michigan Wolverines men’s ice hockey team. The facility features modern amenities, including advanced ice-making technology, upgraded locker rooms, and state-of-the-art training facilities, ensuring optimal conditions for both athletes and spectators.
Beyond hosting collegiate games, Yost Ice Arena serves the Ann Arbor community through public skating sessions, youth hockey programs, and local events, fostering a strong community spirit. The arena’s blend of historic charm and modern functionality makes it a cherished institution in the world of college hockey and a vital part of Michigan’s sports culture.
“I CAN’T HEAR WHAT JEREMY SAYS BECAUSE I HAVE MY TWO STANLEY CUP RINGS PLUGGED IN MY EAR.”
Patrick Roy- 1996 Stanley Cup Playoff
Scope of Work
Yost Ice Arena is located at the University of Michigan- Ann Arbor and seats up to 5,800 people. Originally built in 1923, it has since undergone many renovations.
B32 Engineering Group worked with the University to remove and rebuild the existing rink floor to facilitate replacement of refrigeration on piping, make minor architectural changes in the ice equipment room, enclose the existing Zamboni flood water treatment system, extend the wall in the Zamboni area to increase separation from the west concourse, expand the existing snow melt pit, and the construction of two new brick screen walls at the south façade of the building to enclose the cooling tower and dumpsters.
This project also included the replacement of existing ice, dasher board and related mechanical systems in this 1920’s historical building. The design included extensive ammonia safety systems such as an ammonia scrubber system, vent walls, enhanced ventilation, a detailed gas monitoring system, a static diffusion system, minimizing the ammonia charge in the system, and more. The architectural elements included two tiers of screen walls for exterior equipment and a trash container.
Through careful planning and a thorough review of improvement options, the University will substantially reduce their carbon footprint by eliminating 6,000 pounds of ozone-depleting R-22 refrigerant. The design was completed in 2014 and construction was completed in 2015.
B32 Engineering Group is also assisting the University and its emergency preparedness and process safety management team.