Mayor Bowser Celebrates Grand Reopening of the DPR Fort Dupont Ice Arena Following $39 Million Renovation

(Washington, DC) - Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser, Ward 7 Councilmember Wendell Felder, the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), the DC Department of General Services (DGS), Monumental Sports & Entertainment (MSE) Foundation, community leaders, and residents celebrated the grand reopening and ribbon-cutting of the newly modernized DPR Fort Dupont Ice Arena, welcoming the community back to a refreshed and reimagined space.

"We know that our children in Washington, DC deserve access to the best facilities, the best programming, and the best opportunities to help them grow as athletes and as people. At the new Fort Dupont Ice Arena, we're going to raise and train the next generation of ice skaters in Washington, DC," said Mayor Bowser. "The Fort Dupont Ice Arena has long been a pillar of the community, and with DPR leading programming for the first time, we're opening a new chapter for Ward 7 and for the Sports Capital."

The renovation has transformed the arena into a modern, community-serving destination with a new NHL-size ice surface, upgraded mechanical and building systems, concession area, modernized locker rooms, two multipurpose rooms, administrative offices, and a new skate rental area. The arena is the District's premier government-operated ice skating facility.

"I'm so glad that the day has finally come for us to welcome neighbors to the new and improved Fort Dupont Ice Arena," said Ward 7 Councilmember Wendell Felder. "The Fort Dupont Ice Arena has long been a jewel of Ward 7, making ice sports accessible for residents and visitors who might not otherwise have had access. Now, after successful renovations, I'm proud to say the arena can continue to serve our community for years to come, bringing Ward 7 neighbors together and building on our momentum of investments to create a stronger ward."

Designed by Quinn Evans Architects and constructed by Smoot Construction, the project ensures the arena is ready to serve both recreational skaters and competitive athletes for years to come.

"This ice arena is a great example of how Washington, DC continues to grow as the Sports Capital," said DGS Director Delano Hunter. "In Ward 7, we are building a sports landscape that supports athletes at every level, and this specialty recreation center strengthens that vision with an inclusive experience for skaters, professionals, and residents alike. As the Mayor advances her goal to continue to make Washington, DC a top sports destination, we build on a strong foundation that stretches from RFK to this NHL-size ice arena."

With DPR now operating the arena for the first time, the District is expanding access to structured, high-quality programming. To support this work, DPR is launching new grants of up to $235,000 per organization for activities including learn-to-skate programs, figure skating, hockey skills, broomball, and competitive youth hockey teams. One-time events are not eligible; programs must offer consistent, ongoing activities at the arena. More information is available at dpr.dc.gov/page/dprgrants.

"We're thrilled to bring this arena back to life in a way that truly reflects what Ward 7 deserves," said DPR Director Thennie Freeman. "For the first time, DPR is leading the programming of this space, and that opens the door to new recreation opportunities, deeper community connections, and experiences that simply weren't possible before. Whether you're stepping onto the ice for the very first time or training with competitive aspirations, this arena is a place where residents can grow, play, and belong."

Through the MSE District of Play youth sports initiative, and in partnership with the National Hockey League's (NHL) Washington Capitals, 314 pairs of hockey and figure skates were donated to the DPR Fort Dupont Ice Arena, along with an NHL-grade Sani Sport Supreme ozone unit that keeps equipment safer and fresher by eliminating bacteria and viruses.

"The Capitals and Monumental Sports & Entertainment are thrilled to celebrate the reopening of Fort Dupont Ice Arena," said MSE Chief Administrative Officer and President of External Affairs Monica Dixon. "For decades, the rink's programming has given DC residents - particularly local youth - an opportunity to experience hockey and skating in a way that builds teamwork, confidence and character. Fort Dupont has long been a cornerstone for expanding access to the sport, and we look forward to supporting the continued growth of the game across the District as kids return to the ice."

The original Fort Dupont Ice Arena was built in 1976 by the National Park Service, as part of the nation's bicentennial celebrations. In May of 2010, ownership of the arena was transferred to the District of Columbia. The arena has produced two Olympic speed-skating champions, and is the home of the Fort Dupont Cannons, the oldest Black hockey program in North America. The Cannons were founded in 1978 by Neal Henderson, a former semi-professional hockey player and a 2019 U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame inductee.

"We are proud that the Fort Dupont Ice Arena is back open with a renewed focus on community," said Coach Neal Henderson, Founder of the Fort Dupont Cannons. "Thank you to Mayor Bowser, DPR, and DGS for their dedication to the community. Our DC youth are excited to get back on the ice!"

By taking the time to get the design, safety, and experience right, the District has delivered an arena that honors the community's history and raises the bar for public recreation. It is a welcoming, year-round home for skaters of every level across the District.

The reopened arena also reflects the Bowser Administration's commitment to high-quality recreation and continued investment in Ward 7. Since 2015, the District has invested more than $128 million in Ward 7 recreation projects, including landmark projects such as the $40.4 million Joy Evans Therapeutic Recreation Center, the $29 million Ridge Road Recreation Center, and the $14.3 million Marvin Gaye Recreation Center.

Following this morning's ribbon cutting, residents are invited to enjoy a full day of activities at the arena, including a figure skating performance, a special Learn to Skate session, and multiple free community open skates. Additional details are available at fortduponticearena.splashthat.com. For more information on the DPR Fort Dupont Ice Arena and its programming, visit dprfortduponticearena.splashthat.com.

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