Members of the Schenectady County Legislature were joined by Schenectady Youth Hockey Association and representatives from the Wemple family earlier today to break ground on the expansion and renovation of the Schenectady County Recreational Facility, which is located at the County Airport in the Town of Glenville. The project, totaling $5.1 million, will be financed using funds allocated from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and is expected to be completed by late summer or early fall.
The expansion plan includes the addition of over 4,000 square feet of space for four new locker rooms, an additional changing room, expanded restroom facilities, and a new and larger front entrance. It also includes a new exterior modern façade, a new room for activities, and extends the parking lot approximately 30 spaces. As part of the renovation, the facility will be renamed the “Schenectady County Ray Wemple Memorial Rink”.
"We're thrilled to embark on this important project, which will transform our recreational facility into a modern space that welcomes families and visitors from all over,” said Gary Hughes, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature. “With affordable entertainment options for everyone, this investment ensures our community will have a space to enjoy for years to come. We're excited for construction to begin and can't wait to witness the finished result."
Schenectady County Recreational Facility (SCRF)
Located at the County Airport in the Town of Glenville, SCRF currently supports more than a dozen Schenectady Youth Hockey Association teams, several adult hockey leagues, and two high school teams. The rink hosts hundreds of hockey games every year and offers a wide range of programs from ice skating to hockey, including learn-to-skate programs, and introduction to hockey. In 2023, attendance exceeded 29,000 people during open skating and generated over $400,000 in revenue.
Schenectady County Ray Wemple Memorial Rink
Ray Wemple was a dedicated member of the Schenectady County community, serving in various roles including at the Schenectady Police Department, Carman Volunteer Fire Department, and as the Schenectady County Emergency 9-1-1 Director. He was also dedicated to the Schenectady Youth Hockey Association, where he affected the lives of countless young athletes and their families, leaving behind a lasting legacy of mentorship and community spirit.