Mobile Arena Reaches New Heights with Topping Out Ceremony

Mobile Arena Reaches New Heights with Topping Out Ceremony

Mar 4th, 2026

Posted in: Press ReleaseMayorMobiles New Arena

Mobile, Ala. - The future of live entertainment in Mobile rose to new heights today as city leaders and project partners gathered to celebrate a major milestone in the construction of Mobile Arena.

A March 3 "topping out" ceremony marked the placement of the final steel beam and the completion of the 10,000-seat arena's structural framework. Scheduled to open in early 2027, Mobile Arena will be a state-of-the-art venue providing a new home for live sports, major concerts and touring events on the Gulf Coast. The $300 million facility will serve as the foundation for continued investment and a new entertainment district on the 22-acre site of the former Mobile Civic Center.

"Today's milestone reflects what's possible when a city believes in its future," said Mobile Mayor Spiro Cheriogotis. "Mobile Arena will transform our downtown, attract world-class entertainment, and create unforgettable experiences for generations of Mobilians. Watching it rise against our skyline makes one thing clear - Mobile's best days are ahead of us."

To elevate the experiences inside Mobile Arena, the City of Mobile has partnered with Oak View Group (OVG), a global leader in venue development, management, and premium hospitality. In addition to managing the Mobile Convention Center and the Saenger Theatre, OVG will oversee day-to-day operations of Mobile Arena. Tapping into OVG's global experience will position Mobile to attract concerts, sporting events, family shows, and major touring productions.

"Mobile is a dynamic market for sports and live entertainment, and this arena represents a transformative investment in the region's future," said Greg O'Dell, President of Venue Management, Oak View Group. "We are thrilled to reach this significant milestone and look forward to delivering world-class events, enhanced economic opportunities, and memorable experiences for the community."

Program Manager Volkert Inc. and contractor B.L. Harbert International have driven construction forward with precision and collaboration, keeping the project on time and on budget since work began in early 2025. As the exterior structure nears completion, work will continue inside the facility, where the arena's premium amenities and fan-focused design will come to life.

Mobile Arena has been thoughtfully designed to deliver exceptional guest experiences, featuring retail space, luxury suites, VIP clubs, premium seating options, superior sightlines, and advanced acoustics. The facility also reflects Mobile's unique cultural identity, with flexible ballrooms and event spaces tailored to support Mardi Gras balls and other local celebrations.

"Hanging the final beam on Mobile Arena less than a year after breaking ground is an exciting milestone and a powerful reflection of BL Harbert's commitment to finish as strong as we started," Chairman and CEO Billy L. Harbert said. "We are honored to play a role in such a transformative project for the City of Mobile."