Charlotte Hornets Plan $215M Renovation of Spectrum Center

The Charlotte Hornets’ gameday arena is poised for a major makeover.

The NBA squad is gearing up for a $215 million renovation of the Spectrum Center in Uptown Charlotte, the Charlotte Observer reported.

The project, set to start in May and be completed before the 2025-26 season, calls for new seats, larger suites and more gathering spaces to increase visibility into the bowl of the Spectrum Center when fans are not in their seats watching events.

To bring fans closer to the action, 2,500 lower-level seats will be added.

Traffic flow will be supported by a fourth entrance and exit area, wider corridors and improvements to existing entrance areas. The main concourse will undergo upgrades next year, with themes inspired by destinations in the Carolinas.

Technological advancements will be incorporated to enhance speed and service, including the introduction of grab-and-go markets for food and beverages. The Hornets also want to upgrade the retail experience with expanded menu and bar offerings for visitors.

Premium spaces, including club and hospitality areas, will be renovated over the next two summers. That includes the relocation of two existing event level clubs, the addition of a courtside space and upgrades to the entire suite level. The suite renovations will offer five options to accommodate varying group sizes, the outlet said.

Back-of-house changes will be made for promoters, crews and entertainers.

The Spectrum Center will be closed for renovations from May to September this year and next year. Funding for the project will stem from the city’s tourism fund, generated from taxes on rental cars and hotel rooms.

The Spectrum Center opened in October 2005, and it’s operated by Hornets Sports & Entertainment. In August 2023, an investment group led by Gabe Plotkin and Rick Schnall bought a majority share of the team from NBA legend Michael Jordan.

—Quinn Donoghue