FORT WAYNE, Ind. (Indiana's NewsCenter) --- Developing a "used" piece of land in an urban area, especially during a down economic time, can be a tall task.

But a site in North Fort Wayne is proving that it can be done.

It’s about transforming a “Brownfield” site into a magnet for out-of town sports enthusiasts.

Three years after the idea surfaced, local developer Todd Ramsey on Monday announced a new ice arena complex would be ready to open before the end of the year.

Crews have already begun laying the foundation for the 108-thousand square-foot ice facility to be situated between Wells Street, Fernhill Avenue and Lima Road not far from Glenbrook Mall.

Mayor Tom Henry and other city leaders showed up for a groundbreaking late morning.

The project entails putting three sheets of ice, a full service restaurant and other amenities under roof.

A 6-million dollar hotel will get built next door.

The total package is expected to create 85 new jobs.

The hotel, called Towneplace Suites under the Marriott brand, will cater to visitors coming in for hockey tournaments.

Brian Gilchrist/HRC Hotels: " I think that you're going to see a lot of people come into the area, specifically for this. Outside of Chicago this is going to be the closest thing."

Todd Ramsey/3 Sheets Development: " Lots of businesses benefit, those in food, retail and gas. There will be a draw to all kinds of activities around the rink, like shopping. It brings economic dollars to town."

Fort Wayne has some experience to draw from, regarding the potential economic benefit of this ice rink.

Spiece Fieldhouse a few blocks away, has hosted AAU basketball events for several years.

One person at the groundbreaking termed the new venture, “Spiece on ice”.

It is reported as many as nine hockey tournaments are on the calendar already for 2010.

The Fort Wayne Convention and Visitors Bureau estimates sports tourism generates up to 15-million dollars for Allen County annually, and this facility figures to drive that number even higher.

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