Skanska Inks $70M Contract to Renovate UC’s Fifth Third Arena

By Anca Gagiuc, Associate Editor

Fifth Third Arena at the University of Cincinnati

Cincinnati—The University of Cincinnati recently signed a contract to designate the construction firm selected to renovate Fifth Third Arena. The renovation of the multi-purpose arena will begin in June and is slated for completion in November 2018.

UC signed Skanska USA and joint partner Megen Construction to an almost $70 million contract to upgrade the University’s Bearcats men’s and women’s basketball teams and women’s volleyball team. Skanska has a 70 percent share of the contract, worth about $50 million.

Plans call for both the interior and exterior of the 26-year-old facility to get a facelift. A 360-degree seating bowl would be created, reducing capacity to 11,500 from 13,176, but adding more comfortable seats. Renovations also include new concessions and restrooms, an upper-level concourse with fan amenities, expanded food and beverage options and a new Bearcats lounge and super suites. A new main entrance and plaza with ticketing and guest services are also included. Furthermore, the project is pursuing LEED certification.

Image courtesy of Skanska