ALEXANDRIA, MINN. (Feb. 13, 2023) — Expansion of the Runestone Community Center (RCC) has taken a major step closer to becoming reality thanks to generous support from Bremer Bank and Hilltop Lumber, which have pledged $325,000 and $300,000, respectively, to the project. This will secure exclusive naming rights to the east arena for Bremer Bank and the new arena for Hilltop Lumber.
The RCC Capital Campaign Committee continues working to raise $8.8 million through sponsorships and private donations for the project, with a goal of breaking ground in 2024.
“The substantial backing from Bremer Bank and Hilltop Lumber really underscores the support in our community for this important project,” said Kent Kopp, chair of the Capital Campaign Committee. “Expanding the RCC will have a tremendous economic benefit, and we couldn’t be more thankful to Bremer Bank and Hilltop Lumber for making this investment in our community. This is an important step forward for the project, and we fully expect to continue to build upon this positive momentum.”
The RCC is an important year-round economic driver for Alexandria, drawing people to the community with both its ice and dry-floor events. At its current size, however, it cannot maximize the opportunities or meet the increased demand to host events such as hockey tournaments, figure skating competitions, curling events, graduations, home shows and trade shows. As currently envisioned, it’s estimated expanding the RCC will generate an additional $2 million annually for local businesses.
“People came together many years ago to create the RCC, united behind a vision for creating a facility that would be an asset to the community,” Kopp said. “We all have an opportunity and a role to play in building upon their legacy and ensuring the RCC meets the demands of today and tomorrow.”
To learn more about the RCC Expansion Project, including how to make a pledge, see the RCC Capital Campaign page on the City of Alexandria website. Donors who contribute $500 or more will have the opportunity to be recognized on a donor wall in the RCC. For questions about the project, contact Marty Schultz, city administrator, at mschultz@alexandriamn.city or (320) 759-3629.
About the RCC Expansion Project
The RCC Expansion Project will expand upon the existing 76,000-square-foot community center to align the space with current demand, maximize the RCC’s economic benefit to Alexandria, and continue to provide significant health and wellness opportunity to youth and adults in Alexandria.