Building a new legacy: Construction on Macon Arena begins

What was once just a parking lot will soon become one of Macon-Bibb County's most recognizable landmarks.

On Wednesday, July 29, hundreds of community members, project partners, elected officials, students, and residents gathered at the future site of the new Macon Arena to celebrate the official groundbreaking of a venue designed to serve Macon-Bibb for generations to come.

"Today is a groundbreaking, a celebration…it marks a single moment in time," Mayor Lester Miller told the crowd. "But this is more of a testament to who we are as a community. Unafraid to take the big step, to make the hard decisions, to commit to work together, to have the hard conversations and remain committed to each other. All to provide our community with the facilities, programs, events, and services to make life better for all."

The new Macon Arena will replace the nearly 60-year-old Macon Coliseum with a modern, flexible venue built to meet the needs of today's audiences, performers, athletes, and event organizers. The more than 230,000-square-foot facility will host sporting events, graduations, conventions, concerts, family entertainment, and community celebrations, with seating configurations accommodating everything from intimate performances to center-stage concerts of more than 12,000 people.

Designed by PBK Architects, the arena reflects Macon's identity in every detail. The flowing exterior was inspired by the Ocmulgee River, while architectural elements pay tribute to the community's musical heritage. The facility will also feature premium seating, outdoor gathering spaces, a 30,000-square-foot flex hall, and a dedicated home for the Macon Sports Hall of Fame.

Oak View Group Co-Chairman Peter Luukko said the arena's identity extends far beyond its architecture.

"The facility will be Macon," Luukko said. "Of course, you've seen the design and the facility, but to make it Macon, we have to be the fabric of the community. You'll see the local flavor throughout the concourses, local vendors, the taste of Macon, so people will know they are in Macon."

Beyond entertainment, the arena will also serve as a place for learning and workforce development. Through a partnership with the Bibb County School District, the facility will include an Opportunity Center where students can gain hands-on experience and prepare for careers in hospitality, event management, and other related industries.

"Today's groundbreaking represents much more than the construction of a new arena," said Superintendent Dr. Dan A. Sims. "It represents an investment in the future of Macon-Bibb County and the next generation of leaders, innovators, and skilled professionals who will help shape our community."

The project is being led by MFA Program Management, with PBK Architects leading the design and Barton Malow + Sheridan Construction overseeing construction. The partnership also brings the project full circle: Sheridan Construction originally built the Macon Coliseum nearly 60 years ago and is now helping lead the construction of the arena that will carry the community into its next chapter.

"It is a legacy continuing," said Sheridan Construction President & CEO Christy Kovac. "Jobs, dreams, pride, and a new chapter for Macon."

Construction will take place on the existing parking lot near Second Street while the current Macon Coliseum remains operational throughout the project. The new arena is expected to open in late 2028.

"Today may mark the start of construction of this singular project," said Mayor Miller. "Let me be clear that this is not just a major milestone, but it is the latest in a string of recent milestones that we've achieved together. We are more than this moment. We are all we've done together and all we will do together."