Nationwide Arena is about to turn 25, and with that milestone comes a massive potential upgrade.
The Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority (FCCFA) has unveiled early renderings for a proposed $400 million renovation of the downtown arena, the first significant update since the venue opened in 2000.
So, what’s included?
Ken Paul, executive director of the FCCFA, says the goal is simple: modernize the space, improve accessibility, and keep Columbus competitive when it comes to landing major events. Some of the upgrades in the plan include:
- A new main entrance, extending 30 feet into a neighboring office building
- An outdoor terrace connecting a new 4th floor food hall to the Founders Club
- Improved ADA access with new escalators and elevators
- New LED screens inside and outside the arena
- A long bar where fans can grab drinks without missing the action
- A relocated and upgraded team store
These upgrades aren’t just about aesthetics — they’re about staying in the game. In 2027, Nationwide Arena will host the NCAA Women’s Final Four and the Women’s Volleyball National Championships, followed by the opening rounds of the NCAA Men’s Basketball tournament in 2028. Meeting the standards required to land events like these means reinvesting in the venue now.
How it gets funded
The projected $400 million renovation would be rolled out over four to five years and is expected to be funded through a public-private partnership. That means contributions from both the Blue Jackets and other private operators, as well as state and local governments.
Paul says the arena’s public ownership is central to the vision: “The public owns Nationwide Arena,” he told 10TV. “This is an investment in our own asset — one that supports downtown, drives tourism, and gives Columbus a shot at hosting national-caliber events.”
When will construction start?
Don’t expect cranes in the sky just yet. Officials hope to lock in a funding strategy and timeline by the end of 2025, meaning construction likely won’t begin until sometime in 2026 or later.
