Construction work is being overseen by Turner Construction Company. The existing arena will be expanded from 152,000 to 218,000 square feet to create new seating and circulation areas. The number of seating facilities will be raised to 6,500 for hockey, 6,750 for basketball and almost 9,000 for concerts.
Scope of work will include creation of larger lobby areas, expanded concourses with restroom and concession areas, additional ticketing box offices, private suites, and club amenities. The project will also encompass administrative offices, mechanical rooms, training areas, new locker rooms and a team store.
The exterior of the facility will undergo renovation work too. It will now feature multiple windows and brick accents, as well as a multi-level entryway in glass. In addition, there will be creation of a new, flexible landscaped plaza following the makeover.
The project has received $32 million from the state government and an additional $10 million from Erie County government through gambling revenue from Presque Isle Downs & Casino. The refurbished arena is due to reopen by mid-September 2012.
