Detroit Arena Enhancements Unveiled

Olympia Entertainment has unveiled $95 million in new plans for the under-construction Detroit arena that the company hopes will create a dynamic, multi-use facility that provides interactive experiences for fans.

Photo: Dennis Allain Renderings

One concept for the Detroit Red Wings’ proposed new arena and surrounding entertainment district unveiled by the city’s Ilitch family is shown here in an artist rendering.

Plans include seating options such as gondola seating that will be suspended over the arena, enhanced video and sound capabilities, a “skin” on the outside of the arena bowl that will display video and graphics, creative food-service options and additional elevators.

Outside the building, a plaza will feature green spaces and a massive video wall that will be regularly programmed with music and entertainment. “These enhancements will ensure we create a unique, multiuse venue that brings the best in sports and entertainment to Detroit, while creating a destination for everyone in our community to enjoy,” Olympia Entertainment President and CEO Tom Wilson said. “We’re completely focused on delivering an arena that hosts exceptional experiences for our community, players, fans and neighbors while driving additional investment and development in Detroit.”

On the operations side, plans for the arena include additional points of sale, high-tech security systems and augmented load-in, load-out systems.

“Our organization is committed to stepping up and making the new Detroit arena special for everyone in Detroit,” continued Wilson. “With this additional $95 million in privately funded enhancements, we know that we will deliver a world-class venue that our community will be proud of.”

Excavation and foundations on the site have been completed, concrete is currently being poured for the building’s foundation, and the erection of structural steel has begun. The arena is slated to open in September 2017.

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