Mayor Marilyn Strickland and the Tacoma City Council recently approved $21.3 million to renovate the Tacoma Dome in the 2017-18 biennial budget presented by City Manager T.C. Broadnax.
The city-owned facility will be revitalized with new seating, exterior beautification, renovated restrooms, modernization of backstage areas, and upgrades to loading docks and security systems, according to a Tacoma Dome media release.
“The Tacoma Dome is an icon, a ‘must-play’ venue hosting world-class events for more than 33 years,” said City of Tacoma Director of Tacoma Venues & Events Kim Bedier. “We are looking forward to this exciting transformation and setting the stage for the dome’s continuing legacy as the premier arena for live entertainment in this region.”
“Investing in the infrastructure and long-term future of the Tacoma Dome is vital to the continued growth of arts and tourism in the region,” said Strickland. “The sustained economic vitality of the dome will continue to advance Tacoma’s reputation as a destination.”
Renovations will begin in summer of 2017. New seating will be installed during summer of 2018 with all renovations completed by fall of 2018.
State of the art telescopic seating will be installed, eliminating the portable seating from parking lots and providing a more comfortable experience for fans while improving operational efficiency and safety. Upgraded and additional restrooms will further elevate the guest experience. Modified loading docks, offices and dressing rooms will redefine the experience for promoters, event producers and artists. Exterior renovations include new siding, paint, and signage. Fire alarm and security advancements will further augment safety measures put in place earlier in 2016.
Along with touring shows, the Tacoma Dome hosts 125 events annually, including community events like state high school football championships and 27 graduations each year. The facility welcomes more than 500,000 guests annually and is consistently ranked by music industry publications among the top venues in the country based on gross ticket sales.
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