One of the most recognizable structures in a large Gulf Coast city is being demolished and a $300 million “world-class entertainment destination” will be built in its place.
The Mobile Civic Center opened in 1964 and has for decades hosted some of the largest events in the city, including Alabama Mardi Gras galas, sporting events, theater performances and concerts.
The building’s dome design, which can be seen from Interstate 10, has cemented it as one of the most iconic buildings in the city. But city officials said that was also part of its downfall.
“At age 60, the Civic Center is approaching obsolescence, and the facility is not positioned to attract currently popular arena entertainment due to physical limitations,” the city of Mobile said in a news release.
The city for two years accepted bids on renovations, but those would have been nearly as costly as starting from scratch. The Civic Center has also been “a cash drain” on finances for nearly two decades, with it operating at an $18 million deficit for the last 10 years, according to the release.
The demolition is expected to begin in August and the city is hosting a goodbye to the iconic building on Wednesday.
Construction on new Mobile Civic Center is set to begin in 2025 and should be open in time for Mardi Gras 2027, the city said.
A $300 million Mobile Civic Center and arena is coming after the city demolishes the current dome building built in 1964.
Here’s everything you need to know about the new development, which the city is billing as a win for locals and a tourism destination.
- The Civic Center will feature a state-of-the-art arena that will allow the city to book entertainment currently not possible in the dome.
- The design will support Mobile Mardi Gras traditions and galas.
- The design will allow flexible seating for up to 10,000 and have multiple ballrooms that can be booked for various events or performances.
- There will be retail spaces, premium seating and luxury VIP clubs.
- It can host professional hockey, ice skating and other youth, collegiate and professional sporting events.
More information about the new arena, including a timeline and it how it could affect local dancers and performances, can be found online.