During an annual address on Friday, Norfolk, VA mayor Kenny Alexander revealed that city officials will be planning a potential new Norfolk arena.
Norfolk is currently served by Scope Arena, a downtown facility that originally opened in 1971. Two years ago, the city tapped Oak View Group to study the idea of renovating and expanding the facility as part of a goal to draw more major events to the area.
The renovation idea was eventually deemed infeasible, and city officials are now set to shift their focus toward planning a new arena. During Friday’s State of the City address, Alexander indicated that city officials will be working to generate the plans for the facility. The intention behind a new arena would be to create a more modern venue than the Scope in order to attract more high-profile events. More from the Virginian Pilot:
Expanding seating at the Scope to accommodate larger crowds and bigger acts had been on Alexander’s agenda for nearly two years. He first announced the expansion study at his first State of the City address in 2017.
The city recently announced plans to revamp the whole Scope plaza in conjunction with the renovation of Chrysler Hall. Scope itself will remain unchanged for the time being.
Alexander said the city will now come up with a plan for a new arena in a different location.
“I am committed that a new arena is constructed, and I am directing staff over the next year to bring forward a plan that brings this arena to Norfolk,” he said.
Scope Arena is currently used by hockey’s Norfolk Admirals (ECHL), and for a variety of other events.
Image of Scope Arena courtesy Norfolk Admirals.
