Construction underway for 68,200 s/f Bowdoin's Watson Arena: $20 million

Construction is underway for Watson Arena on the campus of Bowdoin. The 68,200 s/f ice arena is adjacent to the Farley Field House and will have a seating capacity for 1900. Bear Mountain Design AC, LTD of Barnard, Vt. is the project architect and Pro Con Inc of Manchester, N.H. is the construction manager for the $20 million project. The Watson Arena has been designed to have one of the best and most energy efficient refrigeration systems and de-humidification systems, seating design and home team accommodations of any Division III collegiate arena. Plans call for the new facility to feature a 90 ft. by 200 ft. ice surface and large locker rooms with generous space for changing, equipment storage and athletic training facilities. The main concourse area and seating in the interior will provide great views of the action on the ice. The arena has exposed steel trusses, masonry columns and wood accents through the facility. The arena will have a 360-space parking lot. The Watson Arena will replace the college's existing Dayton Arena, which was built in 1956. Once the new arena is completed, Bowdoin plans to dismantle the Dayton Arena. Pro Con, Inc. began site work for the project in September and has scheduled a winter 2008 completion date. The Watson Arena is one of several ice arenas Pro Con has recently managed including a 65,000 s/f ice arena complex at St Paul's School in Concord, N.H. and a 59,000 s/f ice arena at Phillips Academy in Andover, Mass. Pro Con Inc. is a comprehensive design and construction management firm specializing in all levels of corporate, commercial, industrial, institutional and multi-residential construction. Founded in 1935, the company serves clients throughout New England and the Northeast and is recognized as being a leader in the industry.