Details Of Scope Renovations Released

This past weekend, it was announced that the city was looking into renovating the Scope.  The focus would be on improving the quality of the venue to attract some of the better draws that typically pass our area and go from Charlotte to D.C.  At today's City Council meeting, details began to emerge.

CC Image courtesy of  Missy_Schmidt's photostream on Flickr

Over the last 10 years, numerous upgrades have been made to the Scope and Chrysler Hall such as seat replacements, video boards, riggings for lights, dressing rooms, and sound enhancements.  Now the focus will be to the concourse and outside plaza areas.  

According to the master plan that was briefed today,upgrades being looked at include:

• A new expanded glass concourse extending to the legs of the building that would wrap around the circumference of the structure. This would allow for more space and bring much better food and beverage options.
• Increasing the size of the women's restroom to bring it up to code.
• An outdoor pavilion where the fountains currently are that would house a new box office, retail and office space for Scope and Chrysler Hall staff on the second floor.  This would also include an elevator providing instant access from the parking garage below. 
• The addition of green space on the plaza to create a park atmosphere.
• An amphitheater-like space along St. Paul's Blvd. that could provide a stage for outdoor performances.
• Taking down the surrounding walls to allow for better views of the plaza.

Click here for the presentation and conceptual drawings.

As mentioned during the meeting, this is just a first glimpse of changes and there are many steps that need to be taken before the the end game is reached.  It seems there are two paths this project can take: 1.) The renovations are funded by city money and upgrades are made over a long period of time. 2.) The RFP (that's about to go out) soliciting naming rights snags someone willing to pay for everything all at once.

Once City Council concurs on moving forward with this plan, it would go before the Design and Planning Commission for review.  Once final approval is granted firm budget and construction timelines will be presented.