UAB Athletics receives final approval to renovate, seek naming rights to Bartow Arena

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) - The final approval needed to renovate UAB’s Bartow Arena has been granted.

UAB athletics says the University of Alabama System Board of Trustees has granted stage IV approval of the planned renovations and UAB’s ability to pursue naming opportunities in the arena.

“We continue to invest in our athletic programs, our student-athletes and our fans,” said UAB President Ray L. Watts. “The Bartow renovation will enhance the spectator experience and support our student-athletes’ success. UAB is dedicating an investment of at least $4.4 million of institutional funds to support this important project, which will combine with generous donations from fans. UAB Director of Athletics Mark Ingram and I are grateful to everyone who contributed, with special thanks and recognition to the UAB Athletics Foundation and Foundation Chair Hatton Smith who helped make this a reality.”

UAB says, upon completion, Bartow Arena will feature a new entrance lobby with approximately 7,400 square feet of new space to enhance fan experience, allow ticketing activities to take place indoors, and update the overall exterior image. The 34,500 square foot concourse will be updated with new lighting, paint, finishes and graphics, as well as renovations to the restrooms with new fixtures and finishes.

Along with the exterior and lobby upgrades, UAB says a new club-level lounge with associated seating at the concourse level will provide enhanced seating options, as well as hospitality amenities for spectators who purchase club membership.

UAB Director of Athletics Mark Ingram says it’s important that the Blazers offer the best experience to both fans and athletes.

“UAB has some of the best fans in the country, and it is important that our venues offer them the best experience possible while enhancing our teams’ competitive edge. With our recently renovated practice facility and this project, we are investing in the long-term success of our basketball and volleyball programs. I am grateful to our fans and donors, and our UAB community, for their ongoing support, as well as the UA System Board of Trustees for their unanimous approval of the Bartow Arena renovation and the many transformational facilities upgrades we’ve accomplished together.”

If you would like to learn more about individual or corporate naming opportunities or wish to support the upgrades to Bartow Arena, you are asked to contact Blazer Boosters at 205-996-9969 or email blazerboosters@uab.edu.

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