Two celebrity athletes are part of a project to turn an empty New York City armory into a massive ice sports center.

The plans include former Rangers captain Mark Messier and figure skater Sarah Hughes, who won an Olympic gold medal in 2002.

Mayor Bloomberg detailed the plans Tuesday for the Kingsbridge Armory in the Bronx.

The project is to include nine rinks on two levels. One rink would be designed to host hockey tournaments and ice shows.

The city plans to lease the building to a private development group that involves Messier and Hughes.

Construction is expected to start next year with $275 million in private money.

Officials say it could draw 2 million visitors a year.