Nov. 6, 2008

Renovation Renderings in PDF Format

Photo Gallery of The Pit Renovations

The University of New Mexico Vice President for Athletics Paul Krebs outlined details of the $60 million renovations to University Arena (The Pit) today. Some of the items included in today's presentation were the addition of 60,000 square feet of new space, the expansion of the concourse, the addition of 40 luxury suites and 300 club seats to the mezzanine level and the new state-of-the-art locker room facilities for Lobo men's and women's basketball.

The University of New Mexico has a tremendous tradition of achievement in intercollegiate athletics. The tradition is in many ways tied to and symbolized by University Arena, more commonly known as The Pit. The design process followed the completion of the Program Document for The Pit, which was used to guide the planning and design. The guiding mission:

"Our goal is to create the best collegiate basketball venue in the nation." Paul Krebs, Vice President of Athletics

The focus of the design, guided by Molzen-Corbin & Associates, was to maintain and improve the fan experience but not change The Pit. The planning committee was charged with keeping The Pit intimate, respecting its history, keeping the mystique of the arena, maintaining great site lines and the current bowl seating mix and embracing new technology.

As a result, the $60 million arena renovation will include:
• 60,000 square feet of new space
• Doubling the concessions points of sale
• Doubling total number of rest rooms
• Greatly expanding concourse to enhance pedestrian traffic flow
• Extensive glasswork as well as increased ceiling height will allow patrons to take advantage of views including the Sandia Mountains and downtown Albuquerque
• New state-of-the art locker room facilities for both men's and women's basketball teams
• Addition of new weight room and training room dedicated to men's and women's basket ball
• Addition of Lettermen's lounge to provide access to UNM Alumni Lettermen from all sports
• Increase technology to enhance the fan experience, including video boards, ribbon boards and digital signage throughout the arena
• Extensive signage and graphics package to highlight the history of Lobo athletics
• Addition of 40 luxury suites and 300 club seats
• New commissary to support improved concessions as well as club and suites
• The Lobo Store will nearly double its current size
• Ticket office will be expanded and relocated
• The building will feature a distinct architectural look that will be the envy of basketball arenas nationally

Lobos Men's Basketball

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