Comcast Spectacor, which operates Philadelphia’s Wells Fargo Center, has unveiled the latest phase of the arena’s ‘Transformation 2020’ masterplan, stating the next wave of enhancements represent the largest investment and most impactful improvements since the venue first opened in 1996.
The latest announcement comes just days after Comcast Spectacor revealed that the arena, home to NHL ice hockey franchise the Philadelphia Flyers and NBA basketball team the Philadelphia 76ers, will be fitted with what it claims is the world’s first Kinetic 4K centre-hung scoreboard.
The next phase of the $250m (£192m/€220.5m), multi-year initiative surrounds significant upgrades throughout the arena’s main concourse level. To be completed by autumn 2019, the next wave of enhancements include a major upgrade for the culinary offerings at the arena.
Comcast Spectacor said the most noticeable enhancement will be the expansion and redesign of the main concourse level’s central plaza, which will transform to adopt a “bistro meets marketplace” feel.
An additional 4,000 square feet of open concourse space and an array of new seating will make way for an expansive social gathering area. The new open hall concept, styled after some of Philadelphia’s historic public markets, will feature a broad menu of options.
Uniquely Philadelphia and on-trend menu items from a new flex kitchen will have the ability to modify offerings event-to-event. The unique space will also feature a ‘grab & go’ craft beer boutique with an extensive list of local brews in an industrial atmosphere. The makeover will also include a large, redesigned pub-style bar. The concourse club area, to be situated alongside the arena’s eastern corridor, will also have a completely new look and layout.
In addition, more than 15,000 square feet of LED video technology throughout the concourses on every level, along with menu boards, game action screens and rotating signage, will be integrated to react instantly to action on the ice or court.
All-new seating will be installed in the lower bowl, which accounts for 40% of the arena’s total capacity. The lower bowl’s new seats will match the models installed on the mezzanine level last summer. The 2019 lower bowl makeover will mark the last of the original ‘Spectrum Red’ seats inside the Wells Fargo Center, introducing a unified look throughout the venue.
To accommodate the new marketplace, the arena’s box office will be relocated and completely remodelled to give guests a hotel concierge-style setting. A new North End Box Office will include 10 points of service.
“The upcoming main concourse renovations will undoubtedly enhance the overall fan experience,” said Mike Scanlon, senior vice-president and general manager for the Wells Fargo Center.
“These upgrades were designed with a focus on expanding options for every type of fan and advancing points of service throughout the arena. Our goal is to allow every customer to have their own custom experience, tailored to their tastes, in a dynamic atmosphere.”
Last summer, the Wells Fargo Center implemented a total makeover of the arena’s mezzanine level, which accommodates approximately 40% of the arena’s total capacity. This included new and expanded food and beverage options, concourse layouts with skyline views, over 150 new LED game-action screens, and upgraded points of sale.
Images: SCI Architects
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