At 9 a.m. today, the Escambia Board of County Commissioners will see the latest plans for update the Pensacola Bay Center during its Committee of the Whole.
The BCC has been presented previously:
- Concept 1 – $22.3 million: Provides minimal improvements to the food & beverage offerings and premium seating, plus a North Concourse expansion.
- Concept 2 – $52 million: Focus on revenue-generating improvements to food & beverage offerings and premium seating. Option also provides a build-out north concourse expansion creating a grand lobby.
- Concept 3 – $100 million: Focus on creating a new north east exterior and adding additional seating, Plus, Concept 2 options
- Concept 4 – $104 million: Fully exterior focus with the addition of an Ice Rink and Event Center. Creates optionality for a mixed-use district and additional development. Cost does not include any Arena improvements, and those would be in addition to the $104m. – So really $204 million – Concepts 3+4
NEW PROPOSAL
The proposed arena renovation combines concepts 1, 2 and 3 and provides the highest rate of return (ROI). Estimated Total Cost: $47.5 million.
If the BCC wanted to add the event center, the total cost would increase to $85 million.
See the entire plan: Pensacola Bay Center – 2025 Renovation Concept Update.
This is a logical and visionary next step for the economic development of Pensacola and surrounding communities. Expand opportunities for more concerts, tournaments, and other events of larger scale than can be currently accommodated. The bonus development in the surrounding area, much of which is already underway and in planning, will enhance the attraction to Pensacola and draw even more families and city dwellers throughout the area.