Whatever it takes was the theme of the Cavaliers playoff run, but it could also apply to the Quicken Loans Transformation project as the arena prepares to go dark for the first of two summers as part of the $140 million dollar project.
The arena will host singer Shania Twain this Saturday night then will go dark for 107 days until Justin Timberlake takes the stage October 2, so no Gladiators arena football as they take a two year hiatus from play at The Q. In between crews will be able to complete a good chunk of the work without interruption.
One of the first things people will notice, in addition to the work underway right now, is the removal of the pedestrian bridge that goes over Huron Road from the north side of the building to the Jack parking garage.
In the new configuration of the arena, which will feature a glass facade as part of the $140 million project, the walkway doesn't’t fit with the plans to create a gathering area open to the city beyond.
Cleveland is not the only 90’s NBA arena undergoing a summer facelift. The Phillips Arena in Atlanta home to the Hawks is undergoing a $193 million makeover that started last summer and is expected to be completed in October. The project includes the removal of seats and the opening of former suites to create open club space for fans.
Philadelphia’s Wells Fargo Center built in 1996 is in the midst of an ambitious $250 million makeover and plans for Boston’s TD Garden built in 1995 call for it to see its footprint expanded as the addition of new gathering spaces for fans under the construction of a new hotel, office space and retail is part of a $160 million project.
All examples of what we’re seeing more of around the country especially when it comes to arenas and that is re-invent what you have instead of tearing down and starting from scratch.
