Tullio Arena, originally built in 1983, is finally about to undergo its long-planned renovation. Contractors will replace older building systems, add restrooms and ADA seating, new offices and ticketing booths, bowl seating at the western end with a net gain of about 1,000 seats, expanded concourses, 14 suites behind the upper northern and southern seating areas, a bar and dining area on the upper suite level overlooking the arena, a southern deck to view Jerry Uht ballpark, elevators, additional stairwells, seating entrances, training and locker room areas, and a completely upgraded brick and glass exterior, including a landscaped entry plaza. Construction plans and specs here.
I’m excited about the upgrade, as I was about the original building project. Like the Uht, I have no idea how business and political leaders put this project together, considering the cost. But I know that I’ll support the building for years to come, just as I have with the original—and if the project has the build quality of the Bayfront Convention Center, Erie should have a very classy, marketable arena.
I’ll do my best to document the entire building process and post updated photos here.
