Tag: O’Connell Center

Florida’s O’Connell Center to undergo renovations starting in 2023

The O’Connell Center is getting another upgrade. Here’s what we know about the renovation plans for Florida’s iconic O’Dome.

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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UF basketball announces capacity and safety information for 2020-21 season

The University of Florida released its guidelines for capacity and safety at Exactech Arena in the O’Connell Center in light of COVID-19.

Despite the worsening of the COVID-19 pandemic nationwide, we are just a week away from the scheduled start of the college basketball season. So far, no changes have been made to that plan.

But one thing is clear: It won’t be like a usual season. On Tuesday, Florida announced the maximum capacity of Exactech Arena for this season, as well as additional safety information.

Only 2,200 fans will be permitted to attend men’s and women’s basketball games, just under 22 percent of the arena’s full capacity of 10,133, a decision which was made in consultation with UF Health officials.

Fans will be required to wear face coverings over the nose and mouth throughout the entirety of the game, and a lack of compliance could lead to ticket privileges being revoked.

There will be increased signage at the stadium to reinforce safety measures and distancing guidelines and hand sanitizer stations. Restrooms will be one way in, one way out.

In an attempt to reduce contact between fans and staff, tickets will be distributed digitally before the game.

The Gators are set to start their season next Wednesday against UMass Lowell at Mohegan Sun Arena. Their home opener is scheduled for Dec. 6 against Stetson.

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