Ford Center, the home of the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Oklahoma City Blazers, is closing down for the summer while further arena improvements are made.As the Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA) and Oklahoma City Blazers (CHL) 2008-2009 seasons come to an end, Ford Center will close its doors for the summer to begin the next phase of improvements. Ford Center will reopen before the start of the Thunder’s 2009-2010 season.
The following renovations will be made over the summer months:
- Loge boxes
- State-of-the-art scoreboard
- New portable seating in the lower bowl
- Two new clubs that overlook arena events
- Locker room renovations
- Renovation of the audio-video production facilities
- Interior design upgrades
“This is an exciting time for both the City of Oklahoma City and Ford Center,” said Gary Desjardins, General Manager of Ford Center. “The improvements being made to Ford Center are going to take the facility to the next level. When completed, the added amenities and upgraded finishes are sure to elevate the experience of each and every guest.”
The most impressive renovations to Ford Center will take place in 2010, when the footprint expands to include a new grand entrance with a multi-story atrium, additional restaurants and ticket windows, a warm-up court, family fun zone and more.
A number of improvements have already been made as part of the first phase of the project. The installation of high definition capable broadcast wiring and a new lighting system were completed prior to the Oklahoma City Thunder’s season opener. Recently, restrooms throughout the facility received major upgrades, including granite countertops, eye-catching tile, flat-screen televisions and more.
