Future of Dean Dome up in air as university leaders weigh options

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) -- The Dean E. Smith Center is at a critical crossroads as University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill leaders consider whether to renovate, rebuild or relocate the arena off campus.

UNC basketball player Seth Trimble, a senior, spoke to the crowd after North Carolina defeated Clemson on Tuesday night, which was Senior Night.

"I got one more thing," Trimble said. "I know y'all are on my side, but I really hope to see the Dean Smith Center here for a long, long time."

The Smith Center is on the minds of university leaders as three possible paths come with a price tag, according to a 17-page presentation that's being circulated in meetings about the potential upgrades.

Repairing or renovating the existing Dean Dome would cost the least, while moving the arena to Carolina North, located two miles off campus, could cost $786 million.

However, one hurdle with a full renovation would be the potential effect on "lifetime" seat holders and what would happen to their permanent seats.

According to the presentation, 54% of the current lower-bowl seats are tied to personal seat licenses.

However, some are in favor of the building remaining on campus.

"Just renovate, make some things new," UNC fan Shawn Bishop said. "With all the history, like, it's amazing in there."

For students such as Michael Eichhorn, the basketball experience at the Dean Dome is unparalleled.

"It's indescribable," Eichhorn said. "The history of the Dean Dome, I don't think you can replicate that. I think keeping it at South Campus makes sense."

No final decision has been made, and there is no firm timeline on the future of the Smith Center. Meanwhile, a separate project, Carolina North, is gaining traction, and early estimates suggest groundbreaking at the site would come in the summer of 2027.

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