By Deborah Tuff
LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. | A $170 million expansion and renovation of the Gas South Arena is in the works, after Gwinnett commissioners committed to partnering with the Gwinnett Convention and Visitors Bureau to finance the venture.
On the way will be enhanced security, updated technology, more concession options and more parking. The action affirms the Board’s commitment to drive economic benefits for the county by maintaining the arena as a state-of-the-art venue and strengthening the arena’s competitive position in the market.
Funding for the project will come from a combination of sources including reserve cash and bond financing.
Commission Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson says: “Gwinnett County’s support for the Gas South Arena renovation underscores our continued dedication to maintaining the Gwinnett Standard of excellence for county investments. For more than two decades, this venue has brought world-class entertainment to our community while generating significant economic benefits for our residents. By modernizing and expanding these facilities, we’re ensuring that the Gas South District will continue to be a source of pride and a draw to Gwinnett County for generations to come.”
The Gas South District – home to a 13,000-seat arena, a 708-seat theater, a convention center with 90,000 square feet of exhibit space and a 21,600 square foot ballroom, plus the recently opened Westin Atlanta Gwinnett hotel – remains one of Georgia’s most versatile event destinations.
Plans for the renovation include significant upgrades designed to enhance the guest experience, such as:
- Enhanced Security and Welcome Experience: Installation of state-of-the-art security equipment integrated into a redesigned, welcoming front entrance that reflects the campus’s aesthetic beauty.
- Transformed Front Lobby: Removal of existing curved wooden walls to create an open space featuring digital components and permanent merchandise stands.
- Elevated Food and Beverage Options: Addition of lobby bars, built-in bars throughout the venue and modernized concession stands with grab-and-go technology.
- Premium Seating Additions: New loge seating and expanded premium products to provide additional partnership assets.
- Technology Upgrades: Installation of upgraded video screens and digital technology throughout the venue.
- Expanded Parking: Construction of a multi-level parking deck to replace surface parking and accommodate increased attendance.
During his presentation to the Board Stan Hall of the Convention and Visitors board, highlighted the need to maintain the Gas South Arena as a state-of-the-art venue to support the continued economic success of the entire Gas South District.
He told the commissioners: “Gas South Arena has been a cornerstone for live entertainment and a premier destination for the community, generating over $1 billion in economic impact. The county’s investment allows Gas South Arena to stay competitive, offer diverse and first-class entertainment options, and continue attracting top-tier events to this area project. We look forward to sharing this renewed facility with the community soon.”
The Board has authorized the County Administrator and his team to work with the GCVB to develop a refined cost estimate for the project and identify financing sources for the improvements, including engagement of specialized counsel and professionals to perform necessary studies and prepare required reports.
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