Peoria Civic Center Reported Strong Annual Earnings
The venue generated $7.8 million in adjusted gross income while local officials approved a new tourism marketing fee.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Ice Shows
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The Peoria Civic Center announced $7.8 million in adjusted gross income for the latest fiscal year, bolstered by $13 million in ticket sales. The facility also hosted 11 sold out shows while managing rising operational costs.
Why it matters
To bolster future visitors, the Peoria City Council approved a 1.5% fee on short-term hotel room rentals to fund the new Tourism Improvement District. This initiative aims to increase overnight stays in the city despite the venue facing higher insurance and maintenance expenses.
The facility generated $13 million in total ticket sales and $4.5 million in concession revenue. Additionally, the center contributed $2 million in net income and generated $550,000 in tax revenue.
The players
Peoria Civic Center
This is a multi-purpose complex that serves as the city's primary venue for concerts, ice shows, and sporting events.
Peoria City Council
This governing body is responsible for municipal policy, local budget oversight, and the approval of new district fees.
Peoria Rivermen
This professional hockey team uses the Carver Arena at the civic center as its primary home ice facility.
The details
The Peoria Civic Center underwent major infrastructure upgrades, including the installation of a new ice plant at Carver Arena that required replacing nine miles of piping. These efforts successfully reduced electrical costs by 19% and natural gas usage by 46% compared to previous operational levels.
Timeline
March 2026 marked the start of the glass arcade renovations.
Oct. 24, 2026 is the scheduled completion date for the new ice plant.
Industry Dynamics
The implementation of the Tourism Improvement District mirrors a national trend of cities creating self-sustaining marketing funds to compete for regional event traffic. By formalizing this revenue stream, the city aims to stabilize the venue's ability to host major touring productions.
Visitors can expect modern facility amenities following the completion of the ice plant and glass arcade renovations. Meanwhile, travelers booking short-term lodging in the city will notice a 1.5% fee on their rental bills as part of the new tourism marketing initiative.
The takeaway
The Peoria Civic Center is pivoting toward increased operational efficiency through major infrastructure investments to offset rising costs. Local travelers should anticipate that revenue from the new tourism fee will likely influence future event programming and marketing efforts.
What happens next
The new ice plant installation at Carver Arena is scheduled to be completed by the Peoria Rivermen's home opener on Oct. 24, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the venue's upcoming schedule, visit Peoria Ice Shows.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Peoria Public Radio.
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