$125M Legacy Arena renovation nearing completion in Birmingham [Photos]

The Legacy Arena at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex (BJCC) is expected to reopen at the end of this year, following a lengthy renovation that began in April 2020. Keep reading to learn more about the project.

A Renovated Event Venue for Birmingham

Originally built in 1976, the Legacy Arena at the BJCC has hosted millions of Birminghamians at countless events, ranging from sporting events like the annual AHSAA to massive concert performances from the likes of Miley Cyrus, Jimmy Buffett, Michael Jackson and more. Recently, the Legacy Arena was named the future home of the Birmingham Squadron, the new NBA G-League basketball coming to Birmingham.

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In April 2020, the BJCC closed the Legacy Arena for an expansive, interior and exterior renovation project. For the past 16 months, crews from BL Harbert International have been hard at work to bring the vision of the new Legacy Arena to life.

What’s New at the Legacy Arena

The most obvious change to the Legacy Arena is the facility’s new exterior. Gone is the drab, 1970s-era tan exterior that encompassed the arena. Outside, a tree-lined greenspace entryway, designed by Macknally Land Design, will welcome visitors to the arena. And of course, the lobby’s massive glass facade will let in tons of natural light.

But that’s not all.

Once complete, the Legacy Arena will boast a completely renovated interior, including new regular and premium seating options, improved men’s and women’s restrooms, VIP suites, a club level, improved concessions stands and much more.

Live Events Return to the Legacy Arena in 2022

The Legacy Arena’s renovation is expected to be complete by December 2021. Soon, we’ll be seeing events—like home games for the Birmingham Squadron and Billie Eilish’s Happier Than Ever World Tour—at the Legacy Arena.

“We’re extremely excited to have the opportunity to re-introduce a modernized Legacy Arena to the community later this year. An entertainment and sports staple to the greater Birmingham area since 1976, we look forward to extending the history of the venue for many years to come. 

With updates and improvements to every part of the building, we’re already seeing results with the return of NCAA Basketball Tournament action in 2023 and 2025, the Birmingham Squadron beginning their inaugural season soon and what is shaping up to be a strong lineup of entertainment events coming soon.”

Tad Snider, Executive Director & CEO, BJCC

We can’t wait!

Excited to see events at the newly renovated Legacy Arena? Tag us @bhamnow to let us know what you’re looking forward to!