Spectrum Center's $245M upgrade transforms the fan experience
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When thousands of fans return to Spectrum Center in October to see Billie Eilish, they'll be the first to sit in fresh gray chairs, buy concessions from new grab-and-go stations and order drinks from swanky 360-degree bars.
Why it matters: Hornets Sports and Entertainment is two months away from finishing $245 million in renovations that'll modernize the Uptown arena as it turns 20.
What they're saying: "We have to have world-class facilities to be a world-class premier franchise," said Hornets chief venues officer Donna Julian during a hard hat tour with reporters Monday. "This project is going to get us where we need to go."
The latest: Phase two renovates the entire main concourse, encompassing three new main bars, eight new grab-and-go stations, and fresh LED boards and lights leading into a reimagined lobby.
- They're also upgrading back-of-house spaces and flex locker rooms for the crews, entertainers and visiting teams.
Catch up quick: Spectrum Center closed from May to October 2024 for the first round of renovations, which included upgrades to the suite, event and upper levels.
- This past spring, the arena closed for the second and final phase of work.
- The latest arena renovations are taxpayer-funded. As part of its deal with the city, the team will call the arena home through 2045.
What's next: The renovated arena is on track to reopen Oct. 19, with seven events scheduled in eight days, from the Ellish concert to Tate McRae on Oct. 24.
Take a look around the construction zone.
Main lobby
"This is going to be that 'wow' moment when people come into the building," Julian said.
- A 225-foot-long LED will wrap the entire lobby.
- The makeover is expected to make for a cleaner, more modern lobby with new signage, wayfinding, lighting and flooring.
Self-service food and drinks
The Hornets are adding eight grab-and-go stations with hot and cold menu items, including two with Amazon's Just Walk Out technology on either side of the main lobby.
- "You're just scanning your card, picking what you want and walking out," Julian explained.
Bank of America Fifth Street executive entrance
The Bank of America Fifth Street executive entrance is getting a complete refresh.
The Lunazul North District
The North District and South District 360-degree bars replace former private clubs and will now be open to all eventgoers.
- There will be 13 points of sale for customers to make purchases.
Baseline Bar
The South District
New seats
Every seat in the bowl is being replaced. The upper level is almost complete, and the Hornets are starting to replace the lower bowl seals. They'll also add 1,400 chairs.