$14 million renovation proposal to UAB’s Bartow Arena approved by UA system board

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) - Renovations to the University of Alabama Birmingham’s Bartow Arena are getting a green light from the University of Alabama Systems Board of Trustees.

On Friday, board members unanimously approved a proposed architectural design for the Bartow Arena upgrades, a $14.6 million project.

Renovations will include:

• Entrance lobby expansion
• Club-level lounge and club-level seating for enhanced viewing experience 
• Replacement of lower bowl retractable seating to elevate fan experience
• Concourse improvements including lighting and updated restrooms

UAB Athletics officials say they anticipate breaking ground on the project after Spring 2026 commencement, pending fundraising goals being met and additional approvals from the System Board of Trustees.

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