With AGCC guidance, Helmich organized a team of manufacturers to present bid packages to Huizenga. The official opening took place on September 9, 1998. In addition to hockey games and other ice events, the arena hosts circuses, concerts, inspirational speakers, and football and soccer games. Despite a tight schedule, the four IceAire Model A-30 desiccant dehumidifiers were delivered well in advance of their due date. The drier the air, the easier it is to maintain a quality ice surface.
Low humidity is required to keep the ice surface hard and smooth.
And the ice recovers more quickly after resurfacing when the air is dry. Spectator conditions inside the Center are also improved. Fog and drips are eliminated, more fresh air can be supplied, and the indoor atmosphere remains comfortable no matter what the weather outdoors. Also, the Center's owners could reduce future costs for cleaning and repainting, since low humidity inhibits corrosion and mildew. While the City of Sunrise has boosted its gas throughput substantially, the Center will open even more opportunities in the future.