Veterans Memorial Ice Arena will not reopen for 2026–27 season after tornado damage

The Veterans Memorial Ice Arena will not reopen in time for the 2026-27 skating season because of damage from the April 15 tornado.

The EF-1 tornado ripped a wall off the arena and caused other damage to the facility and throughout Veterans Memorial Park. A temporary wall has been erected for safety, but the arena cannot be restored to a usable state in time for the 2026-27 season.

“We understand how deeply this impacts the many renters, skaters, hockey players, families and community members who rely on Veterans Memorial Ice Arena each year,” said Josh Landefeld, Ann Arbor Parks & Recreation manager. “This facility has been an important gathering place for generations, and we recognize the disappointment and disruption this closure creates for our community.”

The Veterans Memorial Ice Arena, which ended its 2025-26 season early because of a mechanical issue (https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MIANNA/bulletins/40a923e?reqfrom=share), is next to a swimming pool that is also in need of repair. The city is working to reopen the pool for use this summer, but it will not be ready for Memorial Day weekend, and swim lesson reservations are not being accepted at this time. Residents can still begin their summer swim season at Fuller Park and Buhr Park outdoor pools.

 (https://www.a2gov.org/parks-and-recreation/activities/outdoor-pools/)

At this time, Veterans Memorial Park remains closed as storm recovery efforts continue. Some areas of the park are expected to reopen by the end of this week (Friday, May 15), including the playground, pop-up dog park, skatepark, and ballfields #3 and #5.

Please note that temporary closures within the park may still occur as crews complete fencing and lighting repairs near the remaining closed ballfields. Updates on the status of park amenities will continue to be shared on the park webpage (https://www.a2gov.org/parks-and-recreation/parks-and-places/veterans-memorial-park-pool-and-ice-arena/) and social media channels. 

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Media Contact: 

Josh Landefeld, Parks and Recreation Manager, 734.794.6230 ext. 42501, jlandefeld@a2gov.org