Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority Releases First Images Of What Renovated Nationwide Arena Could Look Like

The news was first reported Monday afternoon by WBNS-10TV. 

“The public owns Nationwide Arena,” said Ken Paul, the executive director for the Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority, to 10TV. "We're really excited because we get to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Nationwide Arena this September.”

With an approximate price tag of $400 million and a timeline of four to five years once work begins, don't expect changes anytime soon — but the upgrades are undoubtedly needed, with Nationwide Arena having little-to-no substantial renovations during its first quarter century.

Included in the renovation plans according to 10TV are:

• A new main entrance, expanding 30 feet into the neighboring office building.
• A new outdoor terrace connecting a new food hall to the Founders Club.
• Improvements with ADA access, as well as additional escalators and elevators.
• New LED screens throughout the arena, both indoor and outdoor.
• A long bar, allowing fans to get a drink but not lose sight of the action.
• A new team store.

“It's really impactful as we bring out the entrance that allow people to get in out of the weather and through security faster and quicker,” said Paul. “It’s really focusing on accessibility, connectivity, the fan experience, and upgrading amenities."

Paul told 10TV that he hopes to have a better timeline by the end of 2025, when they have more information on how the renovation project will get funded.

He says that's most likely through a public-private partnership.

“There's an expectation that the private sector will invest," said Paul. "But there'll be additional public investment also."

"We're starting that conversation with the statehouse right now."

Paul added that there are several proposals being considered where the state of Ohio would invest in sports facilities across the state, including Nationwide Arena.

The photos below are courtesy of the FCCFA: