New name revealed for former First Arena

ELMIRA, N.Y. ( WETM ) – The events and hockey arena in downtown Elmira now has a new name after a change was noticed on the arena’s website on Tuesday, this comes after a nearly 24-year run as the First Arena.

The new name, LECOM Events Center, was noticed on the header tab for the Arena’s website, firstarena.net, on Tuesday, July 30.

The name change comes amid many other changes to the arena. The arena’s former practice rink is now being turned into a turf field. According to a financial report provided by the Chemung County IDA, “Rec Rink Remodeling” is listed at $23,800 for the first half of 2024. The turf field continues to incur expenses for rentals. It was expected to open on July 27.

The LECOM Events Center is also looking ahead to a new hockey season with a new team: The Elmira Aviators. The team’s first game is slated for October 4 against the New Hampshire Mountain Kings. Tickets are now on sale.

According to Chemung County IDA Chairman Mark Margeson, the arena will receive a new coat of paint before the new sign goes up. That’s expected sometime in August.

The deal between LECOM and IDA is for approximately $500,000 and will last through 2029.

IDA Chairman Mark Margeson says the IDA spoke with a lot of companies before finalizing the deal with LECOM.

“There was a lot of companies we talked to, a lot of companies that we talked about. But, I think the key was to find a relationship that made sense. Not only economically, but community wise and that’s why the opportunity was a great opportunity for us,” said Margeson.

“When the IDA took over a year ago, they took over an awful lot and took on a lot of responsibility. It’s been a struggle, but along the way things have certainly looked brighter. We’ve gotten more cooperation, there’s more that’s been done to the arena to improve it and it is time for us to enter a new phase of things,” said Marketing & Sales Director Bobby Kramarik.

The name isn’t the only thing changing at the arena.

“At every single event here going forth, there will be health screenings, blood pressure screenings and opportunities to engage with a student in training. Again, enhancing access to care and more for our community. This partnership in aggregate is just a wonderful opportunity for LECOM and the IDA to improve the quality of life here in this wonderful city we’re all so fortunate to live in,” said LECOM at Elmira Dean of Academic Affairs Dr. Richard Terry.

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