Hodag Dome repairs ahead of schedule

The School District of Rhinelander announced a positive update regarding the ongoing repair efforts at the Hodag Dome.

On Wednesday, Tom Soehngen, VP of Arizon — the company that manufactured and installed the Dome — visited the site to inspect the structure and assess the damage. Following his inspection, Mr. Soehngen met with District leadership and shared encouraging news: the damage to the Dome is less extensive than originally anticipated.

Arizon will have personnel on site beginning Thursday, April 17, to begin reconnecting the Dome’s fabric to the building. If all goes as planned, the Dome will be re-inflated by early May.

Once the Dome is re-inflated, the District will be able to access and retrieve athletic equipment needed for spring sports. Arizon’s team will also inspect and complete necessary interior repairs, which will include fixing lighting and addressing any rips or tears within the structure. Additionally, the District plans to take this opportunity to add lighting to the tennis and pickleball court area, enhancing the facility for future use.

If progress continues on schedule, the Hodag Dome is expected to be fully operational and ready for use by the end of May.

Superintendent Eric Burke shared, “We greatly appreciate everyone’s patience and continued support as we work through this challenge. In just a few short years, the Hodag Dome has become an incredibly valuable resource for our students, our community, and the entire region. We’re excited to see it return to full operation soon.”