Since the sale of Sunrise Rollerland behind Sunrise Mall earlier this spring, two large, sealed shipping containers have been placed outside the main entrance by the new owners. The medieval-style shield above the center of the main entrance is still in place, however, the red letter “I” is missing from the word “Sunrise” is now missing. Photo by Thomas J. Sullivan

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - New ownership of the much-beloved Sunrise Rollerland, previously owned and operated by the Neutz family for over 50 years has begun to make general renovations to the premises.

The business was sold this spring for $3.5 million to Arcade Monsters, a company that owns gaming and entertainment venues throughout Florida and California, according to Tony Wood, advisor and senior vice president of eXp Commercial of California Inc. Wood represented the seller in the sale.

Sunrise Rollerland saw its last public skate on Sunday, March 15.

Arcade Monsters, the new owners of the former Sunrise Rollerland are planning to add hundreds of arcade machines, as well as new equipment, furniture and fixtures, Wood said. A summer opening date under new ownership is planned.

The recent sale included the business and the approximately 26,736-square-foot entertainment facility that houses it, which is located on a 2.82-acre parcel at 6001 Sunrise Vista Drive adjacent to Sunrise Mall, according to a news release by eXp Commercial of California.

Since the sale, two large, sealed shipping containers have been placed outside the main entrance by the new owners.

Outside, exterior signage remains largely intact, although the red letter “I” is missing from the marquee word Sunrise in the medieval-style shield above the main entrance.

What may become of the historic Sunrise Rollerland herald sign, or the individual red neon letters which have graced the front entrance of the facility for over 50 years is yet to be known.

A commercial box truck was also seen parked beside two large, green commercial metal recycling containers just near the right front entrance along with a small forklift.

Front door entrance windows on the former Sunrise Rollerland are sealed from view with notice that the premises are monitored by cameras and private security.

Workers seen at the site referred direct questions to the Arcade Monsters corporate office for further comment. A corporate media representative for Arcade Monsters did not respond to either a phone or email request for comment about ongoing construction renovations or a likely opening date.

“This transaction represents the successful transition of a truly iconic Sacramento-area business to an exciting new ownership group with a vision for the future,” Wood said in the release.

Sunrise Rollerland was owned and operated by the Neutz family for over 50 years before Ken and Kathy Neutz decided to retire. The couple purchased the rink in 2000 from Ken’s parents, who had owned it since it was built in 1973.

The business’ final day of operation in March was “bittersweet,” the couple said to the Sacramento Bee at the time, and their plan was always to sell to an owner who would keep the rink open.

The rink was a unique part of history, one of the world’s last remaining rotunda rinks and the fourth largest roller-skating rink floor in the world, where the wooden planks on the ground are curved.

Wood couldn’t provide any further details regarding a likely opening date for the new Citrus Heights Arcade Monsters location.

“Sunrise Rollerland has been a beloved institution for generations, and Arcade Monsters brings the creativity, energy, and operational experience to continue its legacy while introducing new entertainment concepts for future generations,” Wood said.