Ice arena, equestrian club in Truckee’s future?

Two men with a long history in helping run ice rinks have proposed building an Olympic-size skating facility in Truckee.

John H. Hugo and Steve Weiss envision a 85-by-200-foot “Igloo Ice Rink” housed in a 31,000 square-foot building.

This Thursday, Hugo and Weiss will ask for the support of the Truckee-Donner Recreation and Park District board of directors for the possible use of 3 acres of district land for the $3 million facility.

If the men are successful, a new ice rink would satisfy the demand in the area for a place for competitive ice sports.

In a report submitted to the district, Hugo and Weiss say the rink could be completed and in service by next fall.

Hugo and Weiss bring significant experience to the project.

A real estate financier, Hugo lives in Truckee and Los Angeles. He played varsity ice hockey at Kent School and Dartmouth College, and worked as a consultant with two ice rinks in Los Angeles.

Weiss was the director of the South Lake Tahoe Parks and Recreation Department for eight years. He led the effort to conceive, finance, build and operate the South Lake Tahoe Ice Arena from 2001 to 2006.

The men say they are soliciting the support of ice skating industry professionals.

Also on Thursday’s agenda is a request for help from a group of Truckee horse enthusiasts who want to form a new equestrian club.

One founder of the new equestrian organization said Monday the group anticipates hosting events like clinics, trail rides and educational programs.

“The ultimate vision of what I would like this club to do is share with the community all the different things horses can do for our lives,” said Cindy Hartzell.