The Nationwide Arena renovation and modernization project (Ohio, US) have reached two important milestones with the release of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for architectural design and engineering services and the launch of a new project Website.
Design Team
‘FCCFA COLUMBUS’ stated that issued by the Franklin County Convention Visitors Authority (FCCFA) (Ohio, US) the RFQ invites the experienced design teams to submit their qualifications for the multiyear, phased renovation of the publicly-owned Nationwide Arena. Responses are due by 4 pm October 7th, 2026, with selection of a design team anticipated in the fourth quarter of this year.
The Nationwide Arena Renovation and Modernization Project are a proposed $400 million phased investment to upgrade and secure the 25-year-old home of the National Hockey League (NHL) team Columbus Blue Jackets in Columbus, Ohio (US) – the Nationwide Arena.
A Request for Qualifications (RFQ) is an initial screening document used by the organizations and the Government agencies to evaluate and pre-qualify the potential vendors, the contractors, or the consultants based on their skills, experience and competence.
The Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority (FCCFA) – often referred to similarly as a convention and visitors authority – is an independent public Governmental entity in Ohio (US) that finances, develops and manages major tourism, sports and convention assets in Columbus.
The 19,500-seat Nationwide Arena is a multipurpose arena in the Arena District of Columbus, Ohio, United States. Since completion in 2000, the arena has served as the home of the National Hockey League (NHL) team Columbus Blue Jackets.
Schematic Design
‘FCCFA COLUMBUS’ further stated that the selected team will help refine the project’s scope, phasing, schedule, and costs through schematic design. The later design phases will proceed as the project’s financing plan is completed and additional authorization is provided by the FCCFA.
Aging Infrastructure
The estimated $400 million project is intended to address the aging infrastructure while improving safety, security, accessibility, technology, arena operations, and the guest experience. The preliminary concepts include an expanded Front Street entrance, upgraded concourses, concessions and restrooms, new elevators and the replacement escalators, improved digital signage and wayfinding, refreshed seating and premium spaces, and a pedestrian connection to the McConnell Garage. The plans also envision new social and event spaces including an upper-concourse food hall and an enhanced outdoor plaza.
Phased Completion
Because the work will be completed in phases the Nationwide Arena is expected to remain operational for the Columbus Blue Jackets games, concerts and other events throughout construction.
New Website
A new website, www.nationwidearenafuture.com, now provides a central source for information about the project. The visitors can explore the need for reinvestment, learn about the proposed improvements, view the conceptual renderings, and follow the progress as planning and design advance.
Next Steps
Together, the RFQ and the Website represent the next steps in protecting a major public asset and preparing the Nationwide Arena to continue serving Central Ohio for decades to come.
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