Tender launched for renovation of Ohio’s Nationwide Arena

Plans for the renovation and modernisation of the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio have taken a step forward with the launch of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for architectural design and engineering services.

Nationwide Arena is a multi-purpose arena in the Arena District of Columbus, Ohio, United States and is home to the Columbus Blue Jackets of the National Hockey League.

Issued by the Franklin County Convention Visitors Authority (FCCFA), the RFQ invites experienced design teams to submit their qualifications for the multi-year, phased renovation of the publicly owned arena.

Responses are due by October 7, 2026, with selection of a design team anticipated in the fourth quarter of this year.

The selected team will help refine the project’s scope, phasing, schedule and costs through schematic design. Later design phases will proceed as the project’s financing plan is completed and additional authorization is provided by the FCCFA.

The 2026 SVB LIVE Conference & Exhibition – focused on elevating the live experience across the sports and entertainment ecosystem – is being hosted at Everton FC’s Hill Dickinson Stadium on October 1st and 2nd, with an Opening Night Icebreaker at Liverpool FC’s Anfield Stadium on September 30th.

The estimated $400 million project is intended to address aging infrastructure while improving safety, security, accessibility, technology, arena operations and the guest experience.

Preliminary concepts include an expanded Front Street entrance, upgraded concourses, concessions and restrooms, new elevators and replacement escalators, improved digital signage and wayfinding, refreshed seating and premium spaces, and a pedestrian connection to the McConnell Garage.

Plans also envision new social and event spaces, including an upper-concourse food hall and an enhanced outdoor plaza.

Because work will be completed in phases, Nationwide Arena is expected to remain operational for Columbus Blue Jackets games, concerts and other events throughout construction.

A new website, www.nationwidearenafuture.com, now provides a central source for information about the project. Visitors can explore the need for reinvestment, learn about the proposed improvements, view conceptual renderings and follow progress as planning and design advance.

Together, the RFQ and website represent the next steps in protecting a major public asset and preparing Nationwide Arena to continue serving Central Ohio for decades to come.

Source and image FCCFA

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