Metra to Reopen Arena After Tornado Repairs

A new and improved Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark is opening this week, less than a year after being significantly damaged by a tornado.

The rebuilt arena hosts a Women of Faith event on Friday and Saturday and will break in the new sound system with a sold-out Elton John concert Sunday night.

The arena has a computerized sound system with acoustical panels on the walls and ceiling, new and bigger concession stands along with more bathrooms, new heating and cooling units and more efficient lighting.

County Commissioner Bill Kennedy said last June’s tornado was “almost a blessing in disguise,” because it allowed the county to make needed upgrades to the building that opened in 1975.

The county’s insurance paid nearly $21 million and the county spent another $5.2 million.