Taking a seat at the Smoothie King Center is like taking a leap back in time. 25 years. Built in 1999, the Pelicans' lair has barely changed since then. Except for ” minimal renovations “, and while ” Most systems and equipment have reached or exceeded their useful life “.
These relatively alarming conclusions are the results of a study, approved by the owner of the premises (Louisiana Stadium and Exposition District – LSED), conducted by the architectural firm Gensler and the consulting firm Venue Solutions Group. The two entities, which visited the building last March, pointed out a number of possible improvements.
The report, which The Times-Picayune obtained the copyfor example, says the building's sound system – installed during construction – needs to be replaced and the central video screen above the pitch should be upgraded within the next two years.
The study leaves Pelicans owner Gayle Benson and Louisiana state officials with the need to either fund a renovation of the arena or build a new one. The Smoothie King Center, originally known as the New Orleans Arena, was built for $199 million. It underwent a $54 million renovation that was completed in 2014.
A priority under certain seats
Over the next decade, the Courtside Club, players' locker rooms and outdoor LED boards were modernised. But much of the stadium's original infrastructure was left unimproved. Not least of which was the risers on which 2,296 seats are located, which were considered a problem. high priority » and must be replaced in the « 2, 3 years “.
Located just steps from the Smoothie King Center, Caesars Superdome is in the final stages of a four-year, $560 million renovation that has widened the stands and built escalators that will take fans from the main stand to the 600 level. Benson, who also owns the Saints, split the cost of the renovation with LSED and the state.
The end of one project is approaching while waiting for the start of another.
