Shaker Heights Plans New Ice Arena and Community Hub

City launches feasibility study for Thornton Park rink and Stephanie Tubbs Jones building redevelopment

Apr. 14, 2026 at 9:08pm

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Shaker Heights, Ohio is exploring plans to upgrade its recreation facilities, including potentially replacing the aging Thornton Park ice rink with a new arena and building a two-story community center on the site of the Stephanie Tubbs Jones building. The city has issued a request for proposals to study financing, programming, and design options for these projects, which are part of a broader $25 million corridor improvement plan.

Why it matters

The Thornton Park ice rink has long been a community anchor, but the aging facility needs significant repairs or replacement. Upgrading the rink and adding a new community center could provide enhanced recreational opportunities and programming for Shaker Heights residents. The planning process will engage the public to ensure the new facilities meet the community's needs.

The details

The city's request for proposals asks consultants to evaluate three priority projects: the Stephanie Tubbs Jones building site, the Thornton Park ice rink, and relocating artificial turf and a playground at the middle school. Options for the rink include repairing the existing facility, building a new single-sheet or one-and-a-half-sheet arena, or converting the old structure into a field house or outdoor courts. Concepts for the Stephanie Tubbs Jones site include replacing it with a two-story community center featuring an indoor gym and expanded programming.

  • The city has already set aside $45,000 in its 2026 capital budget for near-term upgrades to the Thornton Park ice rink, including work on the compressor, glycol replacement, roof repairs, and pool equipment.
  • Geotechnical coring at Thornton Park is expected to begin on July 6, 2026, which could prompt a six-week closure for slab work.
  • The consultant-led feasibility study is expected to take roughly one year, with final recommendations and cost estimates anticipated around May 2027.

The players

John Doyle

Recreation Director for the City of Shaker Heights.

City of Shaker Heights

The local government of Shaker Heights, Ohio, which is leading the planning effort for the new recreation facilities.

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What they’re saying

“Not having a rink I don't think is an option for us here at Shaker”

— John Doyle, Recreation Director

What’s next

The city expects to conclude the feasibility study around May 2027, at which point it will have a final set of recommendations and cost estimates to guide the next steps for the Thornton Park rink and Stephanie Tubbs Jones building redevelopment projects.

The takeaway

Shaker Heights is taking a proactive approach to upgrading its aging recreation facilities, engaging the community to ensure the new ice arena and community center meet local needs. The planning process is part of a broader $25 million corridor improvement plan that will help the city set investment priorities for the future.