The Winnetka Hockey Club, Wilmette Hockey Association and the New Trier Hockey clubs all have one thing in common. We are victims of our own success!
All three of these programs are doing exceptionally well. This is evidenced by the increasing number of participants at all age levels and the performance of clubs vs. local and statewide competition. The girls programs have taken on a life of their own. From the house league level to New Trier Green, the three clubs offer a wide range of opportunities for the youth of the north shore to learn and play the great game of hockey.
The success of our clubs has lead to challenges. Our expanding programs have put a tremendous strain on our need for ice. The clubs are forced to purchase ice from a variety of surrounding facilities, both near and far. The cost of this ice is increasing and the clubs have no control over the future pricing. While hockey families are generally a committed group, they are struggling with the weekly rides to Lake Forest, Vernon Hills and Buffalo Grove to practice and play home games!
The North Shore Ice Arena will provide a terrific solution! This new 45,000 square foot facility will be located just off Willow and Waukegan Road on the Eastern edge of Northbrook. This location will be easily accessible by club members and visiting teams. Our 45 drive times will be cut to a matter of minutes. The proposed site is already zoned and ready for construction.
The facility will be used to support all three clubs while not eliminating the need for the current park district facilities. This is important as we don't want to jeopardize the operation of those facilities.
The estimated cost of the facility is $8.0 mil. Funding for the facility will be provided by a combination of bonds and private donations. The Illinois Finance Authority has provided preliminary approval of up to $5.0 million in 35 year bonds. The remaining $3.0 mil dollars will come from donations. This is where we need your help.
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