The Black River Coliseum is getting a facelift this summer with renovations to its portico and other features. According to Director Greg Smith, this will be the first remodeling effort for the facility since its construction.
The eastern face will receive new glass and aluminum doors. Next, the fountain will be filled in and made into a greenery area. The flooring in the atrium, original from 1999, will be removed and replaced with sealed concrete. Smith confirmed the ticket booth and ceiling will be redone with new fixtures and lighting.
He stated the primary thrust behind the renovations was the aging appearance and function of multiple components in the Coliseum.
“There have not been any upgrades in 26 years,” Smith confirmed.
The estimated $400,000 project is financed by the city’s tourism tax. Smith expects bids to come in Monday or Tuesday from various contractors.
Dille Pollard Architecture completed the design for the new atrium. While he anticipates no interruption to the Coliseum’s schedule of events, some foot traffic will need to be diverted to other entrances.
Smith stated the work is slated to begin by June 1.