Pensacola Bay Center needs millions in upgrades to stay 'relevant,' report finds

A comprehensive assessment of the condition of the Pensacola Bay Center is completed and the results show the building is serving its purpose as an entertainment venue and meeting space, but that it’s in need of major upgrades and some repairs if the Bay Center is to remain “relevant” and competitive in attracting national touring and family events.

The facility condition assessment was conducted by Venue Solutions Group and a team of specialized consultants that evaluated all aspects of the Pensacola Bay Center. Escambia County wanted the study done to determine how much more should be spent on the Bay Center besides routine capital improvements. The results will be used to develop a strategic plan for the future of the building.

The consultants inspected the building inside and out and looked at everything from architecture and infrastructure to the quality of equipment and technology. According to a 20-year capital expense matrix included with the report, just in the next seven years alone it would cost an estimated $72.5 million to repair, replace or upgrade equipment and infrastructure for items like fire protection, structure, technology, elevators, roofs, food and beverage service, as well as furniture and fixtures.

Estimated costs for the same areas over the next 20 years are nearly $140 million.

“Well into its 38th year operation, the Center’s ability to deliver a positive guest experience is crucial for it to remain relevant both locally and nationally,” the study read. “As in-home technology has improved, it has become more of a challenge for operators and sports franchise to keep their customers engaged. As a result, more attention and planning are required in keeping the arena contemporary and attractive to its fan base.”

Which areas of the Pensacola Bay Center need work?

The Bay Center has gotten some much needed updates and improvements in recent years, like new seats, a new sound system, and the biggest upgrade, a new HVAC system. However, much of the 10,000-seat facility is the same as when it opened in 1985.

The study found that the Bay Center’s annual capital budget of $200,00, the same since it opened, is insufficient “to properly extend the life of the venue.”

The assessment’s findings also list specific areas where upgrades, repairs and improvements are recommended and rated according to priority level.

Among them are upgrades that would enhance the experience for fans attending events at the Bay Center like lighting, food and beverage, and seating, including a recommendation to consider redesigning the seating areas so there are different levels to create “unique” and “premium” experiences for fans.

It's also recommended the Bay Center replace sound systems to the main entertainment space as well as meeting rooms.

The report found some equipment is nearing the end of its life, including the chilled water system. Only one of the two chillers is working. The heating hot water system also only functions with one of two gas-fired boilers.

As to the condition of the building, the assessment found that the building is “generally in ‘Fair’ condition overall with isolated elements in ‘Poor’ or ‘Failed’ condition.” While none of the issues are of imminent structural concern, the assessment recommends repairs to issues like cracks in concrete and pavements, deteriorated joint sealants, water intrusion and damaged metal fa?ade panels.

Other areas identified for repairs and improvements include portions of the roof, addressing weathering damage to the outside of the building, as well as the size of the elevator. The two elevators used at the facility are designed to carry people and not freight, which can make it difficult and inefficient to set up for events.

Previously: How much life is left in aging Pensacola Bay Center? Answer will determine its future.

The assessment also recommends improving the design of the kitchen and equipment so more than “basic arena fare” can be offered for events and meetings.

How is the Pensacola Bay Center holding up?

Ultimately, the report found that regular maintenance and upkeep of the nearly 40-year-old facility and its equipment has helped maintain the facility. Fans continue to come for Ice Flyers games and other events, despite the building’s age and challenges like COVID-19.

“Overall, the infrastructure (the “bones”) of the Pensacola Bay Center is in good condition without any immediate concerns,” the assessment reads. “Where there are a number of repairs and maintenance items identified in this report, the owner and operator should feel comfortable that near term renovations will not reveal significant surprises.”

The findings of the facility condition assessment are expected to be presented and discussed with Escambia’s Board of County Commissioners at a meeting in the near future.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Escambia County reviewing Pensacola Bay Center future after study