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Newsroom
Sep 28, 2009
FORD CENTER – A WORK IN PROGRESS
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK. – After nearly five months of renovation work, FordCenter will reopen in royal style with Kings of Leon in concert on October 3.
The initial fall line-up also features:
October 7 Rob Thomas
October 8 Robin Williams
October 21 Star Wars: In Concert
October 30-31 Women of Faith
November 4 AC/DC
November 11 Celtic Woman “Isle of Hope” Tour
December 20 Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Although a significant amount of progress has been made with the FordCenter improvement project while the SMG-managed facility was closed over the summer, returning fans will have to step inside the arena bowl before they see many of the changes.
Once inside the arena, the new state-of-the-art scoreboard is one of the most visible additions. Components from the original scoreboard were repurposed to create upgraded video displays at each end of the arena. In addition, a new, larger video control room has been constructed to house the equipment necessary for major league presentations.
Other visible changes in the arena include new telescopic (retractable seating) on the lower level featuring hundreds of wider, more luxurious leather seats. On the club and suite level, the 48 terrace suites and two new terrace lounges at each end of the arena also make a big impression and add to the premium seating options at FordCenter. The remaining luxury suites on the club and suite level have been completely redesigned, while new bunker suites have been added on the lower levels.
The most noticeable changes outside the arena bowl can be found on the upper level concourse. Redesigned floors, lighting and new flat-screen television monitors offer a brighter, more fan-friendly atmosphere.
These enhancements are just the beginning though. Following the 2009-10 Oklahoma City Thunder season, FordCenter will close its doors once again to complete the final phase of improvements which involves a major expansion to the existing footprint of the facility. A new grand entry with a multi-story atrium will be added as well as new restaurants, bars, concession stands, a roof deck, family fun zone, new offices, expanded locker rooms, and a warm-up basketball court.
The current FordCenter improvements project and an off-site NBA practice facility are being funded by a one-cent sales tax overwhelmingly approved by Oklahoma City voters on March 4, 2008. The 15-month tax took effect on January 1, 2009 and will expire on March 21, 2010.
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