By San Antonio Express-News
The NCAA took a chance on San Antonio, selecting the Alamo City for this year’s men’s Final Four on the promise the Alamodome would be upgraded and because our hospitality is second to none.
City of San Antonio officials have delivered. The upgraded dome will make for a fabulous game experience this spring and undoubtedly serve this community well for years to come.
The $56 million in renovations touch the fan experience in small and big ways. The sound system has been upgraded. Massive video boards are in every corner. A new wireless network should ensure anyone in attendance will have access to the internet. Other improvements include a concourse expansion to give crowds a bit more space, outdoor concession areas, a 360-degree ribbon board and a new media room.
The Alamodome was built with the intention of landing an NFL team. Nonetheless, it has served the community well and is a real asset.
In its nearly 25 years, the dome has served as a home venue for the San Antonio Spurs and now the University of Texas at San Antonio football team. It has hosted Final Fours, as well as major concerts, exhibition games and conferences. And, of course, it is home to the Valero Alamo Bowl, which graciously contributed $6 million to these upgrades.
These improvements will be paid for through parking increases and ticket fees, essentially a user tax for attendees. Importantly, they will ensure the dome continues to serve the community for years to come.
