New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Assemblymember William Magnarelli today announced a $3 million investment to support and advance the transformative JMA Wireless Dome renovation project. The pair made the announcement during a press conference at the JMA Dome flanked by Syracuse University leaders and several coaches, including Adrian Autry, head men’s basketball coach, Fran Brown, head football coach, Gary Gait, head men’s lacrosse coach, and Felisha Legette-Jack, head women’s basketball coach.
“The JMA Wireless Dome has sat at the heart of Syracuse University’s campus for decades,” says Heastie. “Assemblymember Bill Magnarelli was committed to ensuring this stadium is around for future generations to enjoy and I’m honored to join him and so many members of the Syracuse University community here today for this announcement.”
Syracuse University leaders, Orange coaches and local elected officials gather in the JMA Wireless Dome during a July 23 press conference announcing new funding to support ongoing renovations of the facility. (Photo by Charles Wainwright)
The new funding will be directed toward current renovations underway which include replacement of all existing aluminum bench seats with a complete seating system featuring high-impact polymer seats with backs. These renovations also include modifications to existing stairs and railings, as well as ramps and platforms, to enable the facility to achieve Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance as a result of the physical changes created by the reseating. ADA accessible wheelchair platforms are also being added throughout the lower seating bowl, more than doubling the number of ADA wheelchair spaces. Finally, an upgraded building wide fire alarm system and new smoke evacuation system are being installed and new fire sprinklers are being added throughout the facility.
“The Dome is not only a monument in the Syracuse landscape but in our community’s culture as well,” says Magnarelli. “Investing in the Dome will allow Syracuse University to continue to bring world-class sporting events and entertainment to the Syracuse community. I am proud to have secured this funding for Syracuse University as it allows it to continue enhancing the opportunities for engaging residents in Central New York and visitors to our area.”
For more than 40 years, Syracuse University’s iconic Dome has served as a catalyst of economic activity benefiting the City of Syracuse, Onondaga County and the broader Central New York region. Each year, more than 935,000 visitors attend events at the Dome, and those events include concerts by some of the world’s top performers, college and professional athletic competitions, and the very best in family entertainment. The Dome also hosts local and statewide high school sports events, band competitions and other community-focused activities. As a year-round venue, Dome events and operations contribute more than $240 million in income to the Central New York economy and support more than 5,000 local jobs.
“Syracuse University is grateful for our deep partnerships with and the strong support of New York State, Speaker Heastie, Assemblymember Magnarelli and so many other elected officials and community leaders,” says Mike Haynie, vice chancellor for strategic initiatives and innovation. “Thanks to this new funding, the University will not only be able to advance the Dome transformation but also accelerate the work. From premier entertainment experiences to exciting Orange athletic events and community gatherings, Syracuse University’s Dome has been a driver of economic vitality for over four decades. With each event, it not only entertains members of the Central New York community and visitors alike, but also fuels the local economy, generating millions in tourism dollars and supporting thousands of jobs.”
Recently, the University completed the initial work associated with its $120 million transformation that improved the visitor experience and further positioned the venue and region to compete nationally for large concerts, events and NCAA competitions. Renovations included the installation of a new fixed roof, air conditioning and a state-of-the-art 5G network, as well as significant improvements to accessibility, technology, lighting and sound, and the concession experience.
“Syracuse University is not just renovating a building, but reshaping an entire experience,” says John Wildhack ’80, director of athletics. “With a commitment to excellence, we’re shaping a future where student-athletes, fans and our community can enjoy an unparalleled experience every time they play in, attend an event or visit the Dome. With the new football season just around the corner, I am confident the environment will be more electric than ever. Thanks to terrific community and government support and partnerships, the Dome continues to be one of the most exciting venues to visit.”
As part of the work currently underway, the University is also in the process of constructing Miron Victory Court, an enclosed pedestrian concourse that will physically connect the stadium and the Barnes Center at The Arch, among other enhancements. This new space is expected to be complete later this fall.
For the most up-to-date information on the JMA Wireless Dome Transformation Project, visit JMADome2024.com. Alumni, fans and friends can visit the website to track construction progress, access seating and pricing updates, and sign up to receive notifications about the project.
