Concept drawings show posssible changes to UD Arena

Season-ticket holders taking the University of Dayton Arena renovation feasibility survey in recent days have seen images of proposed changes to the arena.

The artist renderings show a wider concourse, new club lounges and loge seating at the top of the lower bowl on each side of the arena and four terrace suites at each corner.

The loge seating would have movable chairs and more comfortable seats. The terrace suites would have fixed seating for six to eight fans and total capacity of 12 with private restrooms, flat-screen TVs and a kitchenette.

The images show potential concepts and are subject to change. They don’t necessarily mean UD will take this route with the renovations.

“The early reaction to the survey has been very strong,” Athletic Director Neil Sullivan said Saturday. “Our response rate to date has been very high. Obviously, we need enough data to reach some statistically valuable conclusions. The attempt is to value the depth and breadth of the marketplace and the support for these improvements. The renderings are intended to be conversation starters to get reaction and determine what may or may not be appropriate.”

UD announced Jan. 8 it was exploring upgrades to the arena. It partnered with the firm Conventions, Sports & Leisure International (CSL) to conduct the study.

Sullivan said he doesn’t see there being a tremendous variance in the number of seats a renovated arena would hold, but it’s too early to discuss exact numbers. UD Arena’s current capacity is 13,435.

“The architecture firm, this is what they specialize in,” Sullivan said. “This is what they do. They’re very strong. They’ll let us know what the limits of our architecture are.”

UD invited fans to take the 10- to 15-minute online survey to explore potential upgrades to the arena, which will turn 50 in 2019. Fans have until Feb. 4 to complete the survey.

In an email to fans, Sullivan wrote, “Now is the time to examine the concourses and bowl area of the Arena which have not had substantial upgrades since it was built.”

Sullivan told fans UD needs their insight as they study the project.

“Your participation is critical,” Sullivan wrote, “as the direct-market feedback is essential to evaluate the level of support for various seating options, fan amenities, and other areas of arena improvements.”

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