$80 Million Indoor Sports Multiplex With Four Ice Rinks Planned for Lakewood Ranch
A major indoor sports and entertainment complex valued at approximately $80 million is moving closer to reality in east Manatee County after county commissioners unanimously endorsed a public-private partnership that would bring a four-rink sports multiplex to Lakewood Ranch.
The proposed facility would be developed by Wesley Chapel-based Icemann Development on a 22-acre parcel owned by Manatee County at Premier Sports Campus North, near the Lakewood Ranch Library along State Road 70 east of Lorraine Road.
The project is expected to encompass roughly 190,000 square feet and feature four ice rinks, including one arena with approximately 2,500 permanent seats. The ice surfaces would be designed to accommodate other sports and events when covered, creating a flexible venue capable of hosting hockey, figure skating, curling, basketball, volleyball, cheerleading competitions, dance events, consumer shows, tournaments and community gatherings.
Additional amenities would include food and beverage services, retail and pro shop space, orthopedic and medical services, athletic training facilities, free surface parking and an 800-space parking garage.
Icemann Development CEO Gordon Zimmermann told commissioners the company has extensive experience developing large-scale sports venues, including the TGH Iceplex training facility used by the Tampa Bay Lightning and the AdventHealth Center Ice complex in Wesley Chapel.
The project has generated significant interest from sports and business partners, including potential sponsorship and naming-rights opportunities. County officials indicated any naming agreements would require county approval and align with local branding.
The parking garage emerged as one of the most attractive elements of the proposal for county leaders. Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Elliott Falcione noted the county had long sought additional parking capacity in the area but lacked a funding source. Under the proposal, the private developer would finance and construct the garage, while the county would receive 20 percent of gross parking revenues beginning in the second year after the facility opens.
County officials view the multiplex as a significant tourism and economic development asset. Sports tourism already generates approximately $400 million annually in Manatee County, while the Premier Sports Campus alone contributed an estimated $100 million to the local economy in 2025.
Market research commissioned for the project projects the new facility could generate an additional $30 million in annual economic impact through tournaments, events and visitor spending.
To help advance the project, the county is considering a long-term land lease agreement that would allow Icemann Development to build and operate the facility. Under the proposed terms, the company would pay $1 per year during the first three years while construction and startup activities are underway. Rent would increase to $100,000 annually beginning in year four and then rise by 2 percent each year thereafter, subject to market conditions. The agreement would include a 60-year lease with an option for a 30-year extension if lease requirements are met.
The Manatee County Tourist Development Council previously recommended providing up to $5 million in tourist tax funding for horizontal infrastructure improvements on a reimbursement basis.
According to the proposed timeline, site plan approvals could be completed by the end of 2026, allowing construction to begin in early 2027. If approvals and financing remain on schedule, the multiplex could open by the summer of 2028.
County leaders say the facility would strengthen Lakewood Ranch’s position as a regional sports destination while providing new recreational opportunities, tournament space and event capacity for residents and visitors alike.
