ALEXANDRIA, MN – September 26, 2025 – On Wednesday, September 24, the newly renovated and expanded Runestone Community Center (RCC), now PrimeWest Health Runestone Community Center, brought community leaders and supporters together to celebrate the grand opening of its first two phases, located at 802 3rd Avenue West, Alexandria, MN. The new PrimeWest Health RCC, designed by JLG Architects, in collaboration with RJM and the City of Alexandria, is home to the Alexandria Area Hockey Association, Alexandria Blizzard, Alexandria Figure Skating Club, Vikingland Curling Club, and several trade show partners.
In 2021, JLG Architects was hired to program and design an expansion and renovation of 76,000 square feet at the existing 50-year-old facility. The first two phases broke ground in June of 2024.
The grand opening marked the completion of both initial phases within the multi-purpose venue. Phase I, completed in November of 2024, provided an expanded main lobby, new concessions, and expanded restrooms. Phase II concluded this fall with an expansion of the main lobby, new and renovated locker rooms south of the RCC, as well as support space on the concourse and mezzanine levels. The second phase also provides space for new team and meeting rooms, an elevator, and an improved circulation concourse.
“The RCC has been a cornerstone in this community for 50 years, so it’s been an honor to collaborate with the City to make the next 50-year vision a reality. As a local parent of two young skaters, I’m thrilled to see new, larger spaces that will welcome a variety of ice and community events while fueling the growth of our youth teams and local organizations. Without a doubt, this project—and the future Phase III expansion—will open the door to even greater opportunities for our community and Alexandria’s economic growth.”
— Adam Barnett, Principal Architect, AIA – JLG Architects
Phase III
The City of Alexandria is currently pursuing a third phase of renovation with JLG Architects and RJM, including the addition of multi-use event space and a third ice sheet to help meet the increased demand for on-ice activities and dry floor events. The timing and scope of this phase depends upon funding from a combination of sources, including the State of Minnesota, City of Alexandria, and the PrimeWest Health RCC Capital Campaign.
“It’s exciting to see the completion of the first two phases, but support for this third phase is critical — it’s whatour community needs to truly catalyze growth through existing program expansion, new programs, and year-round revenue for a stronger economic outlook,” said JLG Architects’ Adam Barnett.
To learn more about the project and make a pledge to the capital campaign, visit primewesthealthrcc.com, contact Marty Schultz, City Administrator, at mschultz@alexandriamn.city, or call (320) 759-3629. Businesses and individuals that contribute $500 or more will have the opportunity to be recognized on a donor wall in the PrimeWest Health Runestone Community Center.
The first two phases received generous support from individuals and businesses totaling more than $4.1 million – including exclusive naming rights partners PrimeWest Health (Facility), Hilltop Lumber (New Arena), Bremer Bank (East Arena), and Aagard (West Arena). The Alexandria Area Hockey Association (AAHA) has also been a strong supporter of the expansion project, pledging $700,000 in 2023.
The expansion and renovation of the PrimeWest Health RCC benefits the entire community through recreation and economic impact, enabling Alexandria to host additional hockey tournaments, figure skating competitions, and curling events, with expanded dry floor use for trade shows, concerts, graduations, home shows, and more.
According to the City, based on a study conducted to determine the financial impact on the community, PrimeWest Health RCC has the potential to create a $2 million annual economic increase — benefiting local businesses, citizens, and community.
“The renovation and expansion of the PrimeWest Health Runestone Community Center represents an investment in the future of Alexandria. The design enhances the experience for athletes and families and allows us to meet the increasing demand for both the on-ice and dry-floor events that fuel our local economy. We are proud of what this facility represents for Alexandria today and tomorrow.”
– Bobbie Osterberg, Mayor, City of Alexandria
About JLG Architects
JLG Architects is a 100% employee-owned firm, national pacesetter, and pioneer of progressive, uncommon architectural solutions. We redefine human-centric Design Excellence with approachable innovation to advance our clients’ ambitions, strengthen organizational missions, grow emerging leaders, and personalize the connection between clients and communities.
