Nexus Center Utica University

Utica, New York
Construction Cost: $55 million
Area / Square Feet: 170,000
Occupancy Date: October 2022

The Utica University Nexus Center stands as a revolutionary hub in the heart of the Mohawk Valley, transforming the recreational landscape with its versatile 170,000 square feet of state-of-the-art facilities. This multi-use sports and recreation arena has become a beacon for sports enthusiasts, attracting recreational and competitive athletes from all corners of the United States and Canada across various disciplines such as ice hockey, box lacrosse, soccer and field sports. 

At the core of its offerings, the Nexus Center boasts three sheets of ice, which are seamlessly adaptable to transform into expansive turf surfaces for field-based sports. On the second floor, an elevated two-lane track provides an exciting vantage point for runners, offering a dynamic view of the activities transpiring below, as well as a space for exercise. 

Beyond its primary focus on recreation, the Nexus Center has been meticulously designed to serve as a versatile venue for community events. With full-service food and beverage areas, well-appointed locker rooms, college classroom spaces, retail sections and other flexible multipurpose areas, the facility is poised to host a diverse array of gatherings. The facility also has the capabilities to host esports competitions, concerts and other entertainment events. 

The Nexus Center proudly stands as the home for the American Hockey League’s Utica Comets, Utica University’s men’s and women’s hockey teams, and the Utica Junior Comets youth hockey organization. As a dynamic epicenter for sports, recreation and community engagement, the Nexus Center embodies the spirit of unity and athletic excellence in the Mohawk Valley and beyond.

Architect of Record

VIP Structures

Syracuse, N.Y.

Associate Architect

Perkins&Will

Denver, Colo.

Suppliers

Ice Rinks - Bleachers/GrandstandsIce Builders
Ice Rinks - DashersIce Builders
Ice Rinks - Refrigeration UnitsIce Builders
Fitness Center - Entertainment SystemsO'Connell Electric Company
Gymnasium/Field House/Arena - LightingO'Connell Electric Company
Gymnasium/Field House/Arena - Scoreboards/Timing SystemsO'Connell Electric Company
Gymnasium/Field House/Arena - Scorers TablesO'Connell Electric Company
Gymnasium/Field House/Arena - Sound SystemsO'Connell Electric Company
Laundry - DryersO'Connell Electric Company
Laundry - WashersO'Connell Electric Company
Building Systems - Pre-Engineered StructuresVIP Engineering
Building Systems - SkylightsVIP Engineering
Fitness Center - Flooring, Fitness CenterVIP Engineering
Gymnasium/Field House/Arena - Arena SeatingVIP Engineering
Gymnasium/Field House/Arena - Divider CurtainsVIP Engineering
Gymnasium/Field House/Arena - Floor CoversVIP Engineering
Gymnasium/Field House/Arena - Folding ChairsVIP Engineering
Indoor Soccer/Inline Rinks - DashersVIP Engineering
Indoor Sports Surfaces - MultipurposeVIP Engineering