The University of Alabama at Birmingham Athletics
UA System Board Approves Architectural Design for Bartow Arena Renovation
9/12/2025 2:11:00 PM | General
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees voted unanimously in favor of Stage III project approval on Friday. UAB Athletics has received approval for the proposed architectural design for the Bartow Arena upgrades.
The $14.6 million Bartow Arena renovation project is intended to feature four main components:
"I am excited about taking the next step toward approval of the Bartow Arena renovation," said UAB Director of Athletics Mark Ingram. "We are grateful for the steadfast support of the UA System Board of Trustees and UAB leadership under President Watts, and I am grateful to everyone who continues to give their time and resources in order to help enhance this important facility on our campus and in our community."
Pending UAB Athletics' reaching fundraising goals and additional UA System Board of Trustees approvals, the project is anticipated to break ground following the completion of UAB's Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies.
Bartow Arena is home to the UAB men's and women's intercollegiate basketball programs, as well as the women's volleyball program. The renovation project is designed to support and boost the visibility of these programs while enhancing the spectator experience.
Additional information about the Bartow Arena renovation project and ways to support will continue to be made available throughout the upcoming months.
For more information, or to direct your support toward the Bartow Arena renovation project, call Blazer Boosters at 205-996-9969.
The $14.6 million Bartow Arena renovation project is intended to feature four main components:
- Entrance lobby expansion
- Club-level lounge and club-level seating for enhanced viewing experience
- Replacement of lower bowl retractable seating to elevate fan experience
- Concourse improvements including lighting and updated restrooms
"I am excited about taking the next step toward approval of the Bartow Arena renovation," said UAB Director of Athletics Mark Ingram. "We are grateful for the steadfast support of the UA System Board of Trustees and UAB leadership under President Watts, and I am grateful to everyone who continues to give their time and resources in order to help enhance this important facility on our campus and in our community."
Pending UAB Athletics' reaching fundraising goals and additional UA System Board of Trustees approvals, the project is anticipated to break ground following the completion of UAB's Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies.
Bartow Arena is home to the UAB men's and women's intercollegiate basketball programs, as well as the women's volleyball program. The renovation project is designed to support and boost the visibility of these programs while enhancing the spectator experience.
Additional information about the Bartow Arena renovation project and ways to support will continue to be made available throughout the upcoming months.
For more information, or to direct your support toward the Bartow Arena renovation project, call Blazer Boosters at 205-996-9969.
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