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Renovations are set to begin soon at the Houston Field House in Troy, home to the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) men's and women's hockey teams. The $40 million project will start approximately two weeks after the regular-season finale on February 21.
The renovation will focus on updating the ice surface, boards, and cooling system. Additionally, the project aims to expand the locker rooms and athletic training area, enhancing facilities for athletes and staff. According to Whiting-Turner, the renovation will also include upgrades to the ceiling system, lighting, and the game scoreboard, along with exterior improvements such as replacing the metal panel façade with a curtainwall system.
The Houston Field House, originally a Navy warehouse, opened in 1949 and is recognized as the nation's third-oldest college hockey rink. Despite its age, the school never considered demolishing the building to construct a new arena. The venue currently seats over 4,800 fans and has undergone several renovations since its opening, with significant updates made during the 2008-09 and 2011-12 seasons, as noted by RPI Athletics.
The upcoming renovations aim to preserve the historical significance of the Houston Field House while modernizing its facilities for future generations of athletes and fans.