Saranac Lake Civic Center, which is due to host the curling during the 2023 Winter World University Games in Lake Placid, is to get a $6 million upgrade in time for the event ©Black Mountain Architects

A $6 million (£4 million/€5 million) upgrade of the venue due to host curling at the 2023 Winter World University Games in Lake Placid has been announced.

Empire State Development (ESD) unveiled details of its plans for Saranac Lake Civic Center to ensure it is ready for the event in less than two years.

The project is being supported by $4.5 million (£3.2 million/€3.7 million) in Upstate Revitalization Initiative funds through the North Country Regional Economic Development Council.

The primary project will be rink improvements to ensure the ice surface meets world-class competition standards,

"The Lake Placid 2023 World University Games will welcome thousands of athletes, families and fans to the North Country, and showcase New York State to a global audience," ESD Acting Commissioner and President and chief executive-designate Eric Gertler said.

"Projects like the upgrades to the Saranac Lake Civic Center will ensure that our facilities meet world-class standards, while providing the necessary infrastructure to accommodate future athletic competitions of this size and calibre."

Other work includes interior and exterior renovations, as well as energy efficiency, fire and safety improvements.

Improving the quality of the ice so it is world class for Lake Placid 2023 is one of the main aims of the upgrade to the Saranac Lake Civic Center ©FISU
Improving the quality of the ice so it is world class for Lake Placid 2023 is one of the main aims of the upgrade to the Saranac Lake Civic Center ©FISU

It is also planned to have additional upgrades to kitchen, locker room facilities and spectator seating.

It is hoped that the improvements will better position Saranac Lake to attract future events after Lake Placid 2023.

The project coincides with the North Country Regional Economic Development Council's strategy of strengthening the region's global sports brand by attracting international sporting events that would stimulate private investment and job growth.

In April, it was announced that $92.5 million (£66.4 million/€77.5 million) has been allocated in the 2021-2022 New York State budget towards upgrading sports venues in time for Lake Placid 2023. 

Ollie Burgess, Saranac Lake Civic Center Board member, said: "On behalf of my fellow Board members, we are very excited to upgrade the Saranac Lake Civic Center ahead of the 2023 World University Games.

"Thanks in large part to the support from Empire State Development, these renovations will help us to attract future competitions while ensure that we can continue supporting the community and youth sports groups that rely on the rink."