One of the University of Florida’s most iconic venues, the Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center, is set to undergo renovations beginning in 2023.
According to a report from Swamp247, UF is looking to repair or replace the roofing system at the O’Dome. If it’s possible, the new roof could be “solar ready,” and there’s already around $7 million put aside for the project. The current schedule has renovations beginning toward the end of August 2023 and lasting about 65 weeks. A final inspection is scheduled for January 8, 2025, but the university is still looking for firms.
The arena’s most recent update came in 2016 when the entire interior was rebuilt. Although it was a $65 million project, the roof wasn’t included. The last time UF updated the roof system was in 1998, and now an inspection says the 24-year-old roof is in need of replacement.
The university is currently taking bids on the project and will conduct final interviews on November 7 before establishing a firmer timeline for things.
Although it’s not as flashy as adding a new interior with $2 million video boards, ensuring the structural stability of one of UF’s most frequented buildings is important. Both basketball teams call the O’Connell Center home, as do the gymnastics, volleyball and swimming and diving programs.
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