Training Facility for Kings, Lakers Proposed

The Los Angeles Kings have proposed building a training facility in El Segundo that would include a National Hockey League-sized rink, a larger Olympic-sized ice skating facility and a professional-sized basketball court for the Los Angeles Lakers.

John Semcken, vice president of Majestic Realty, a development company owned by the Kings, said the teams want to build a state-of-the-art training facility on an undeveloped plot on Nash Street between Grand Avenue and Mariposa Street. He said the facility, which would include locker rooms and office space for both teams, would be open to the public when the teams are not using it.

Semcken said the teams want to build a training facility that would give players a consistent place to practice. The Kings now practice at the Iceoplex in the San Fernando Valley and the Lakers split their practice time between Loyola Marymount University and the Inglewood YMCA. He said El Segundo is conveniently located for most coaches and players.

City officials said the project, which also proposes the development of two hotels and an office park, would be a big boost to the city.

“It would be a tremendous community asset having the two pro teams essentially headquartered here,” Economic Development Director Jim Hansen said. “It also offers a tremendous opportunity to be able to utilize the hockey and basketball facilities.”

The proposed six-acre development is scheduled to be discussed at a Planning Commission meeting March 26. Semcken said that if the deal is approved, the developers hope to break ground within the year.