$15.4 million basketball arena renovation approved for University of Alabama Birmingham
Key Highlights
- A new 7,400-square-foot climate-controlled lobby and ticketing area will improve fan access and comfort.
- Upgraded concourses and new digital displays will enhance the visual appeal and fan engagement.
- The renovation includes a new permanent floor and modernized interior to match campus upgrades.
The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees has approved a $15.4 million renovation of the basketball arena at University of Alabama-Birmingham.
The Birmingham News reports that the facelift of Bartow Arena is intended to turn the facility into one of the top venues in the American Conference.
Here is a look at a few improvements that fans can expect in the updated arena.
Fans looking to buy tickets will no longer be left out in the cold. A key feature of the renovation will be a 7,400-square-foot, climate-controlled lobby and ticketing office at the main entrance of the arena.
The renovation will also upgrade the 38-year-old venue to match some of the modern renovations around the campus.
The refurbished entrance will also feature a new statue of former head coach Gene Bartow, which will likely be erected just outside the arena. The new structure will stand at roughly 9 feet tall and will serve as an upgrade to the existing bust of Bartow on a podium inside the arena.
Refreshing the visual appeal of the arena won't be limited to the exterior. The renovation is also set to upgrade the concourse to improve fans' viewing experience.
New scoreboards and ribbon boards will be added across the interior of the arena, creating a more modern display with interactive lighting effects.
Perhaps the most notable feature of the upcoming project will be the introduction of a new premium club, which will provide a luxury experience with hospitality for members. Unlike the university's existing hospitality areas, the new club will provide a direct view of the court.
The new club will be available exclusively to season ticket holders who purchase tickets in sections directly below the club.
The upcoming renovations will also feature a new permanent floor.