Trenton Welcomes Return of ECHL Hockey, Sparking Nostalgia adn Optimism
TRENTON – The announcement of a new ECHL hockey team for Trenton’s Cure Insurance Arena brought together former Trenton Mayor Douglas H. Palmer and former Mercer County Executive Bob Prunetti last Tuesday, evoking memories of past successes and renewed hope for the city’s future.
Current County Executive Dan Benson’s announcement of the team’s return resonated deeply with both Palmer and Prunetti, who oversaw significant sports and entertainment progress during their tenures. Palmer, a Democrat who served as mayor from 1990 to 2010, and Prunetti, a Republican County Executive from 1992 to 2003, found common ground in their dedication to Trenton and Mercer County.
Prunetti highlighted the potential for continued success, recalling the strong support enjoyed by the Trenton Titans during their early years. He also noted his role in the development of Mercer County Waterfront Park, a nearly 7,000-seat stadium that hosted the Double-A Trenton Thunder baseball team from 1994 to 2020, including the addition of ”Samuel J. Plumeri Sr. Field” to the stadium’s name in 1999. “We had a lot of opposition but great success with the Yankees,” Prunetti said, remembering initial discussions about building the arena alongside a potential hotel.
Palmer, a former collegiate baseball player, echoed Prunetti’s enthusiasm, emphasizing the importance of sports and entertainment for revitalizing the city. He proudly displayed his 2005 ECHL Kelly Championship ring from the Trenton Titans. “I’m ecstatic hockey is returning to Trenton as this means there are people who still believe in this great city,” Palmer stated. He also commended Benson for fulfilling his commitment to developing Trenton and Mercer County, viewing the new team as a valuable prospect for local businesses and residents.
The Cure Insurance Arena itself has undergone several naming changes since its opening in October 1999, initially as Sovereign Bank Arena, then Sun National Bank Arena, before becoming Cure Insurance Arena in 2017.
Both Palmer and prunetti acknowledged the disappointment felt when the Titans and Thunder teams previously departed, but expressed confidence in a positive future. “Things are cyclical,” Palmer said. “With the right leadership and emphasis on sports and entertainment, we can have success again. This is just the beginning.”
