Ice Box Project Earns ABC Award of Excellence
Ancon Construction, a 100% Employee-Owned Integrated Design-Build™ firm, is proud to announce that its project for the Ice Box Skating Rink in South Bend, Indiana, has received the Award of Excellence from the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Excellence in Construction Competition. The award honors the skill, creativity, and teamwork demonstrated by the contractor, owner, architect, and engineer on this project.
The Ice Box Skating Rink, a 37,000-square-foot pre-engineered metal building complemented by a 6,800-square-foot renovation, stands as a premier sports tourism hub in the region. The facility has a measurable economic impact, contributing $27 million annually to the local economy and generating over 41,000 hotel room nights during the Notre Dame football offseason. The Ice Box hosts 28 major events each year, attracting teams and spectators from 31 states and highlighting its national significance to South Bend’s sports tourism industry.
“Ancon Construction delivered an outstanding new ice rink while seamlessly creating a new lobby, concessions, restrooms, and pro shop,” shared Michelle Riccio, General Manager of Ice Box Skating Rink. Their team was professional, communicative, and deeply knowledgeable about the unique demands of ice facilities. Quality craftsmanship, attention to details, and adherence to timelines were evident at every stage of the project. We couldn’t be happier with the result and highly recommend them for any complex, large scale facility build.”
Originally an Oliver Plow factory built in 1920, the project thoughtfully integrates the historic structure with a new pre-engineered metal building, demonstrating adaptive reuse that preserves local heritage while supporting sustainable urban development. Developed in partnership with the City of South Bend and the Redevelopment Commission, the project contributes to the revitalization of the Near Northwest side of the city.
“The ABC Excellence in Construction Competition highlights projects that reflect innovation, community impact, quality, and safety,” said Doug VonGunten, President of Ancon Construction. “We are honored to receive this award and congratulate the Ice Box on a successful project. This achievement would not have been possible without their trust and partnership. This recognition also reflects the commitment and craftsmanship of our Ancon Employee Owners. It’s especially rewarding to see the Ice Box celebrated for its contributions to sustainable development and the community.”
Ancon Construction continues to demonstrate its dedication to quality construction, sustainable development, and economic growth through projects that enhance both the quality of life and quality of place in the communities it serves.
