The next step for UD is deciding what to do with that feedback. Sullivan told fans the scope of the project and a timeline have not been determined. They are continuing to analyze the results of the survey and working with architects “to ensure any modifications yield the greatest value and best possible enhanced experience for all basketball fans and patrons of the arena.”
In general, fans support upgrades, Sullivan said.
“Our fans confirmed that we want to maintain what they kind of refer to as the soul of the arena,” Sullivan said. “It’s unique. It’s special. We don’t want to lose that. That was good to confirm that. But we also want to balance it with innovation as we look forward over another generation.”
UD Arena opened Dec. 6, 1969. It underwent a $13.1 million renovation in 2002. Among the proposed changes that could come with more renovations include a wider concourse circling the arena, new club seating at the top of the lower bowl on each side of the arena and terrace suites at each corner of the arena.
The Flyers averaged 12,942 fans in the 2015-16 men’s basketball season, 40 per game short of the arena’s attendance mark set in the 1969-70 season. Sullivan said 16 fans in the lower bowl didn’t renew their season tickets for the coming season. As always, there is a long line of fans waiting to take their place.
“We’ve got demand that exceeds capacity in the lower arena,” Sullivan said. “There’s a couple thousand people within our season-ticket holder bases and people not currently in the building that would like to sit in the lower arena.”
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