Cassell Coliseum, Virginia Tech’s basketball arena, is set to receive an estimated $75 million upgrade as part of the university’s $400 million Reach for Excellence campaign.
By Marty Gordon
Virginia Tech’s recently announced Reach For excellence campaign, a $400 million fundraising effort to push the school’s athletic programs to the next level, includes an estimated $75 million overhaul of Cassell Coliseum.
Plans call for a completely redesigned experience: a new glass entrance along Washington Street, extended concourse areas along both sides to allow fans easier access to different sections of the coliseum, and the addition of high-end premium seating areas, including club seating and luxury suites on both sides
The $75 million cost for the renovation will be offset by at least $50 million in private support.
Men’s basketball coach Mike Young is excited about the plan. “I am elated that we are taking the next steps in a place I have been fond of for as long as I can remember,” Young said. “Cassell Coliseum has meant so much not only to me, but to the community as well, and I am excited to see what the finished product will look like. I can hardly wait.”
According to the university, the renovations will maintain Cassell’s intimacy while adding premium seating areas and visibility between the bowl of the arena. A new second-level concourse will provide restrooms and concessions for fans sitting in the upper seating area, lessening travel distance to many seats from fans’ amenities.
Above the student seating, a walkway will connect the new upper concourses for ease of walking around the coliseum. This space will also serve to support a unique video board. An open food court will enhance concession options with space for gameday events.
Construction for the main portion of Cassell Coliseum began in 1961 and was completed in
