Delaware’s municipal leaders have taken a decisive step toward transforming the city’s sports landscape with a sprawling new hockey complex slated for the intersection of Sawmill Parkway and U.S. Route 42.
A Vision for a Midwest Hockey Hub
The proposed facility, spanning roughly 150,000 square feet, will house two full‑size ice rinks designed to meet the growing demand for youth and amateur play in central Ohio. City officials say the complex is intended to become a regional magnet, drawing teams and spectators from across the Midwest.
The Ohio AAA Blue Jackets, a youth hockey organization with a strong regional presence, will spearhead the development. Their official website, ohioaaabluejackets.com, outlines plans for a state‑of‑the‑art training environment that could host tournaments and developmental camps.
Delaware City Council approved a Tax Increment Financing district to fund public improvements surrounding the site, a move that reflects both public and private confidence in the project’s long‑term benefits.
Project planners anticipate an annual influx of roughly 600,000 visitors, a figure that could translate into significant revenue for local businesses. Officials expect the complex to open in time for the 2028‑2029 season, pending final regulatory sign‑offs.
Ed Gingher, a key figure in the city’s economic development office, and Nic Langford, a longtime advocate for youth sports, have been vocal supporters of the initiative, emphasizing its potential to boost community engagement and create new opportunities for local athletes.