ORONO, Maine — The University of Maine is seeing major summer progress—not on the field, but behind the scenes, where renovations to two key sports facilities are well underway and even running ahead of schedule.

In a media briefing this week, university officials shared exciting updates on the ongoing renovations to the Shawn Walsh Center and Alfond Arena, two cornerstones of UMaine’s athletic infrastructure. The improvements are part of a broader plan to modernize and enhance the student-athlete experience while boosting the appeal of the university’s sports programs.

“It’s going to be a busy summer for the University of Maine, but not on the court or the ice or in between the lines, but in the construction zones!” officials said during the tour.

Since the close of the spring season in April, crews have been working steadily on a series of upgrades to the facilities. Both the arena and the hockey center are undergoing extensive renovations, ranging from infrastructure improvements to aesthetic upgrades aimed at enhancing the experience for athletes, coaches, and fans alike.

UMaine Athletic Director Jude Killy expressed enthusiasm about the progress, noting that construction teams have kept up strong momentum since breaking ground.

“I’m thrilled with how the new-look arena and the Walsh Center is coming along,” Killy said. “We’re even a bit ahead of schedule!”

These projects are part of the university’s long-term investment in its athletic programs, which play a crucial role in student engagement, alumni support, and institutional pride. The renovations are also expected to improve recruitment and training capacity for UMaine’s Division I teams.

The Alfond Arena—home to UMaine’s storied hockey program—is getting upgraded seating, lighting, and locker rooms, while the Shawn Walsh Center is seeing enhancements to training areas, office space, and team facilities.

When completed, the renovations will not only improve functionality but also elevate the university’s competitiveness in collegiate athletics. The updated facilities are expected to open in phases throughout the 2025–2026 academic year, with student-athletes returning to a transformed environment tailored for peak performance.

In addition to the two headline projects, the university is conducting broader infrastructure assessments across its athletics department, ensuring that improvements extend beyond aesthetics and into long-term facility sustainability.

UMaine’s summer of construction is set to lay the groundwork for a stronger, more dynamic athletics program—one built to support today’s athletes and inspire future generations of Black Bears.

Originally reported by David Eid, WGME in Fox 23 News.