Per A Columbus Dispatch Report, Nationwide Arena Is In Need Of Major Repairs

When Nationwide Arena opened in 2000, it was a state-of-the-art facility and was widely regarded as the best arena in the league. Fast forward 24 years, and it's time to make some major, much-needed repairs.

According to a report today by the Columbus Dispatch, the arena will need repairs totaling approximately $60.2 million. 

Per the Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority, the following are the upgrades and improvements that are needed:

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Per the Dispatch, "Traditionally, the authority has paid for capital improvements from the agency's revenue sources, including the county's tax on hotel beds, casino tax revenue and a tax on tickets to Nationwide Arena events, in addition to state, local and federal dollars.

With some of these repairs, the fans won't bat an eye, but having a good roof and a cool/warm arena is something they need. A new scoreboard has been on the wish list of fans for a couple of years now. Seeing arenas put up massive scoreboards has made some people jealous and wanting a new video board. 

Over the past few years, the team facilities were upgraded, which was the most important phase. The team's locker room, restroom, recovery areas, and weight room were all upgraded to make them more modern. Based on player accounts, they absolutely love the new player areas. 

Also included in the recent upgrades were an ice plant and lighting. The lighting upgrades were to the in-arena LED boards such as the player tunnel, press room, and the various LED boards that are located around the lower and upper bowls. 

The team also announced the new Center Ice Club. Per a club release, "Members of the Center Ice Club will receive a variety of upscale amenities and benefits, including dedicated parking in the Arena Garage, all-inclusive food and beverage, dedicated restrooms, a private entrance and priority access to other special events." 

Nationwide Arena and the Arena District have become Downtown Columbus' destination spot for entertainment. The Columbus Blue Jackets, Columbus Crew, and Columbus Clippers all live on Nationwide Blvd, not to mention several concert venues, and dozens of bars and restaurants. 

Keeping Nationwide Arena updated is of utmost importance. The Arena District was built around the arena, so relocating NWA is virtually impossible if they were to explore a new arena in the coming years. Keeping it modern and putting the funds into keeping it that way is the only way to ensure the Blue Jackets call Downtown Columbus home for decades to come. 

In the age of new arenas and stadiums aging out in 25-30 years, or sometimes less, having an arena stand the test of time would be a welcome site for professional sports. There's no better place to have an up-to-date, modern arena for professional sports and events than Columbus, Ohio. 

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