Tennessee Unveils $85 Million Renovation Plans for Food City Center

The University of Tennessee has announced comprehensive renovation plans for the Food City Center at Thompson-Boling Arena, aiming to enhance the fan experience and modernize the facility. The project, estimated at $85 million, is set to commence following the university’s spring graduation ceremonies and is expected to significantly upgrade the arena’s amenities and infrastructure.

Key Features of the Renovation

The planned renovations encompass several major enhancements designed to elevate the overall experience for attendees:

• • State-of-the-Art Scoreboard and Video Displays: A new center-hung scoreboard will be installed, accompanied by four additional video boards positioned in the arena’s corners. These upgrades aim to provide spectators with improved visibility and real-time game information.
• Advanced Sound System: The arena will feature a high-performance sound system with speaker arrays engineered to deliver even sound distribution throughout the venue. This system will also extend coverage to premium suite areas and include new speakers in concourses and restrooms, ensuring a consistent audio experience for all attendees.
• 360-Degree LED Ribbon Board: A continuous LED ribbon board will encircle the arena, providing dynamic displays for scores, announcements, and other engaging content to keep fans informed and entertained.
• Riverside Club Development: One of the most significant aspects of the renovation is the creation of the Riverside Club. Located in the lower level behind the arena’s lower bowl, this area—previously used for television truck parking—will be transformed into a premium club space. Approximately 1,500 seats will have access to this club, which will offer a variety of food and beverage options and serve as a social hub before games and during intermissions.

Commitment to Fan Experience

Tennessee’s Athletic Director, Danny White, emphasized the university’s dedication to its supporters, stating, “We are incredibly proud to have the best fan base in all of sports, and we will always put their experience first. We are fully committed to making continuous improvements. The new additions to Food City Center will modernize the arena and significantly enhance the experience for everyone attending our events.”

Historical Context and Future Outlook

The Food City Center, formerly known as Thompson-Boling Arena, has undergone several updates since its opening. Phase I renovations added loge seating and 32 luxury suites on the arena’s north side, which were a primary funding source for the project.

The upcoming renovations are part of a broader strategy to keep the facility competitive and appealing for both sports events and concerts. The university’s partnership with Food City, established through a multi-year naming-rights agreement in 2023, has been instrumental in facilitating these enhancements.

As the university prepares to embark on this significant project, fans and stakeholders alike can look forward to a revitalized arena that honors its storied past while embracing modern advancements to enrich the spectator experience.