Indiana State Fair officials are discussing a renovation of Pepsi Coliseum that would add a second enclosed ice sheet, a new main entrance, renovated bowl area and an expanded backstage area to the 72-year-old landmark arena.
The arena, formerly the home of the ABA’s Indiana Pacers, is still a profitable venue, hosting Indiana Ice (USHL) games, open skating, touring shows and other smaller events. Its iconic fieldhouse look was directly emulated in downtown’s Conseco Fieldhouse.
Plans, including a budget, are still up in the air. Donations will be solicited for renovations, but it’s almost a given public assistance will be sought as well. The venue is solidly profitable and subsidizes other State Fair operations, and it doesn’t really compete with Conseco Fieldhouse.
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