Upgrades start at Lenovo Center; developer shares new renderings
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Construction crews have been working inside the Lenovo Center, and some improvements that are part of the multi-million-dollar renovation project are already done.
The viewing bar, with unobstructed views of the arena floor, is located on the third level and open for fans.
"Most people want to just hang out there," said Centennial Authority Board Chairman Philip Isley. "It's a cool view."
Isley said work will really rev up once the Carolina Hurricanes' season ends.
"When this project is complete, Lenovo Center is going to look and feel like an entirely different building, inside and out," said Brian Fork, CEO of Hurricanes Holdings. "Every person who comes to this building is going to have a first-class experience to match the top venues in the NHL."
There are other upgrades on the upper level. New lighting was installed, and new bathrooms have been expanded.
The next big improvement will be increasing the seating capacity to nearly 21,000.
"When we shut the building down in the summertime, we'll start doing stuff inside the actual bowl, make some changes to the seating, to the aisles," said Isley.
The project is moving forward, and developer Gensler presented new renderings of what the entertainment center could look like.
The upper concourse is getting a refresh. A multipurpose space, viewing bar, and luxury private suites will be added in Phase One.
On the main concourse, fan amenities include a beer hall and coffee shop.
"The experience of attending an NC State basketball game or any event in the Lenovo Center is going to be even better following these updates," said Boo Corrigan, McMurray Family Director of Athletics at NC State. "From improved operations to enhancements for our general fans and premium spaces, every aspect of the building has been thoughtfully designed to elevate the experience for Wolfpack fans."
There will be a new team store for fans to grab souvenirs and merchandise, and ABC11 was told there will be a better flow for patrons to get in and out of the shop.
On the club concourse, there will be a new Arena Club.
"Lenovo Center hosts hundreds of events every year, from NC State men's basketball to Hurricanes hockey to world-class touring acts and family shows," said Isley. "These enhancements will help us continue to bring top entertainment and events to Raleigh."
The developer said the South Terrace will be a highlight of the project. It's a 1,400 square foot outdoor space where people can hang out before catching a game or concert.
All of these concepts still have to go through the approval process, and the design has to be priced out.
The goal is to have it done by 2027 or 2028.
