Construction has begun on the Mobile Arena on the site of the former Mobile Civic Center. A groundbreaking ceremony involving leaders from Mobile, Oak View Group and other project partners was held this week.
The management company Oak View Group and concert promoter Live Nation will bring in performances and events for the facility.
The Mobile Arena is part of a planned $300 million entertainment district downtown.
“After years of discussion and months of planning, we are beyond excited to see construction officially begin at Mobile Arena,” said Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson. “This will be a gamechanger for Mobilians and visitors in our city. It will make Mobile a true event destination — driving tourism and providing residents with quality events to enjoy with their friends, families and neighbors.”
Construction of the facility is being handled by BL Harbert International. The design of the facility was developed by Goodwyn Mills Cawood and Populous Architects. The venue is expected to open in 2027.
“Goodwyn Mills Cawood is thrilled and honored to play a role in such a transformative project happening right here in our own backyard,” said Keith parker, senior architect at GMC. “This cutting-edge venue will bring live entertainment, concerts and — of course — our beloved Mardi Gras celebrations to new heights.”
Sitting on 22 acres, the Mobile Arena will have flexible seating and layout options, allowing it to easily adapt to the activities, from smaller show to larger events with more than 10,000 spectators. The design also incorporates multiple ballrooms capable of hosting events of all sizes.
“The Mobile Arena project reflects everything we believe in at Oak View Group — creating world-class venues that serve their communities and deliver unforgettable live experiences,” said Peter Luukko, co-chair of Oak View Group.
During the ceremony, Oak View Group announced that Mobile Coca-Cola Bottling Co. would serve as the official beverage partner and the first founding partner of Mobile Arena.
“We are proud to partner with the city of Mobile on this transformative project and to welcome Mobile Coca-Cola Bottling Co. as the official beverage rights partner. Coca-Cola is a terrific partner who will help us enhance Mobile Arena’s initiatives through imaginative and creative customer activations across the region,” said Dan Griffis, president of global partnerships, Oak View Group.
