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NewsYourobserverJune 23, 2026Manatee

New $80 Million Sports Multiplex Planned for Lakewood Ranch

Manatee County commissioners have approved a public-private partnership with Icemann Development to build a 190,000-square-foot indoor sports complex. The facility will feature four ice rinks, a parking garage, and multi-use courts on 22 acres of county-owned land.

sportseconomic developmentinfrastructuretourismland usepublic-private partnership
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Why It Matters

The project commits 22 acres of county land to a 60-year lease and provides up to $5 million in public tax funds to support a private developer's $80 million sports facility.

Key Facts

  • The project is estimated to cost between $75 million and $85 million.
  • Manatee County will lease 22 acres of land to Icemann Development for a 60-year term.
  • Lease terms: $1 per year for the first three years; $100,000 per year starting in year four, with a 2% annual increase thereafter.
  • The Tourist Development Council recommended providing up to $5 million in public funds for horizontal infrastructure.
  • The facility will include four ice rinks, 2,500 permanent seats, and a paid parking garage.
  • The county will receive 20% of gross parking garage revenues starting in the second year of operation.
  • The complex will occupy approximately 190,000 square feet.
  • The facility is designed to host hockey, figure skating, basketball, volleyball, cheer, and dance events.
  • The site may be used as an emergency shelter if authorized by the county.
  • The project is projected to generate $30 million in annual economic impact.

Who's Mentioned

organizationManatee County“Local government providing land and infrastructure funding.”personElliott Falcione“Executive Director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.”personGeorge Kruse“Manatee County Commissioner.”personGordon Zimmermann“CEO of Icemann Development.”locationPremier Sports Campus North“Site of the proposed development.”organizationIcemann Development“Developer responsible for designing, building, and operating the multiplex.”