News Summary
Macon-Bibb County leaders have unveiled plans for a new arena to replace the aging Macon Coliseum, aiming to enhance tourism and local business growth. The arena is expected to accommodate 7,000 to 12,000 seats and is set for completion by mid-2028, with operations at the current Coliseum continuing during construction. The $450 million project, funded by voter-approved SPLOST, will include modern features and sustainable practices while revitalizing the Ocmulgee River area and stimulating economic growth.
Macon-Bibb County leaders have unveiled plans to construct a new arena aimed at replacing the aging Macon Coliseum, which has served the community for over 50 years. The initiative includes a request for qualifications to engage architects and engineers for the design phase of the new facility. A decision regarding the selection of the architect or engineer is anticipated within the next few weeks.
The new arena, projected to hold between 7,000 to 12,000 seats, is expected to significantly boost Macon’s appeal as a tourist destination. Gary Wheat, President and CEO of Visit Macon, has emphasized that this project is a “game changer,” highlighting the importance of a modern venue to enhance local tourism and support business growth.
Macon’s Mayor Lester Miller has expressed confidence that the new arena will provide long-term benefits for residents and strengthen the local tax base. Plans for the arena include the addition of a new parking deck, upgraded amenities, and VIP experiences aimed at enhancing the overall customer experience.
The expected completion date for the new arena is mid-2028. During its construction, operations at the existing Macon Coliseum will continue unhindered, alleviating concerns about a gap in available venues for events. The project will be financed through a $450 million Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) that received voter approval.
Modern features of the new arena will include premium seating options and improved concession areas, which align with the city’s broader objective of enhancing customer experience and capacity. As other cities in Georgia, such as Athens, Savannah, and Augusta, invest heavily in their event spaces, Macon-Bibb County aims to ensure that it remains competitive in the tourism market.
In addition to seating and amenities, the design of the new arena will reflect the identity of Macon-Bibb County while incorporating sustainable building practices. City officials are pursuing a fast-track approach to expedite both the design and construction processes. Following the close of contractor submissions on September 3, a shortlist of potential contractors will be revealed shortly after.
This development is part of a larger effort to revitalize areas along the Ocmulgee River, with the goal of creating a vibrant environment that attracts residents and supports local business development. City officials have also placed a priority on improving accessibility to ensure that facilities will accommodate individuals with physical limitations.
The new arena is positioned as a pivotal element in Macon-Bibb County’s redevelopment plans, aiming not only to enhance entertainment options but also to stimulate economic growth and foster community engagement. With the ongoing preparations and the involvement of local stakeholders, the project is set to make a lasting impact on the community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- 13WMAZ: New Macon Coliseum Request for Qualifications
- Macon Telegraph: Macon Leaders Eye New Coliseum
- Flagpole: The New Classic Center Arena Progress Update
- Macon Telegraph: Community Development in Macon
- Macon Telegraph: Local Events and Venues Update
- Wikipedia: Macon, Georgia
- Google Search: Macon Coliseum
- Google Scholar: Macon Georgia Development
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Macon
- Google News: Macon Arena News
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SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
