UAB breaks ground on Bartow Arena renovation
$15.4 million project expected to be completed for 2026-27 basketball season
Olivia Bennett 
UAB officially kicked off a massive transformation at Bartow Arena this Thursday, breaking ground on a $15.4 million renovation project set to revitalize the home of Blazer basketball and volleyball.
A Modern Look for a Historic Venue
Following final approval from the University of Alabama System Board of Trustees in February, the wheels are now in motion. The project is currently tracking for an October completion, ensuring the facility is fully operational for the upcoming 2026-27 basketball season.
Revamping the Fan Experience
The project brings significant upgrades to the arena's infrastructure and aesthetic. Plans include a massive 7,400-square-foot entrance lobby designed to move ticketing indoors and provide a fresh, modern exterior for visitors. Additionally, the 34,500-square-foot concourse is slated for a complete refresh, featuring updated lighting, graphics, new paint, and renovated restrooms with modern finishes.
What They Are Saying
UAB athletics director Mark Ingram emphasized the scope of the project, noting that the upgrades will mirror the modern feel of the campus while boosting the school's ability to host revenue-generating events. "The Bartow Arena Renovation will be transformational for UAB and for athletics," Ingram said. "It will mirror the modern aesthetics of our campus and provide an enhanced experience for all of our students and fans."
The groundbreaking ceremony saw a strong turnout, including UAB President Ray Watts, Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, and various UAB coaching staff members. For the city, the renovations represent more than just a win for the Blazers; they represent an opportunity to expand the utility of the arena as a premier multipurpose destination.
"The upgrades to Bartow Arena are not just a huge win for the Blazers, but a major win for our city," Mayor Woodfin stated. "We continue to embrace our sports legacy and further establish Birmingham as a destination for sports and entertainment. This project showcases UAB’s continued commitment to the highest standard for its student athletes, fans, and the community at large."
