What’s New With Smith Entertainment Group: Transforming the Fan Experience

Are you curious about the latest buzz surrounding Smith Entertainment Group (SEG)? If you're a sports enthusiast, a concert-goer, or simply someone who loves staying updated on major developments in the entertainment world, then you're in the right place. Smith Entertainment Group, a dynamic force in the industry, is making significant waves, particularly with its ambitious plans that promise to redefine the fan experience.

From groundbreaking arena renovations to strategic urban development, SEG is not just building venues; they're crafting a new era for entertainment. What exactly is on the horizon? Let's dive into the exciting updates and discover what's new with Smith Entertainment Group.

The Delta Center Transformation: A Dual-Sport Marvel Takes Shape

Perhaps the most talked-about development from Smith Entertainment Group is the multi-phase transformation of the Delta Center in downtown Salt Lake City. This isn't just a facelift; it's a fundamental reimagining of the arena to create a state-of-the-art, dual-sport venue.

Innovative Seating for Unrivaled Views

One of the most revolutionary aspects of this renovation is the implementation of a never-before-seen retractable seating system. Why is this a game-changer? Traditionally, arenas designed for both basketball and hockey often prioritize one sport, leading to less-than-ideal sightlines for the other. SEG is tackling this head-on:

• The new system maintains the close-to-the-action seating beloved by Utah Jazz fans.
• It simultaneously affords full, optimized views from every lower bowl seat for NHL games, accommodating the nearly 12-foot elevation variance between a hockey rink and a basketball court.
• The arena bowl is being lengthened by approximately 12 feet at each end, and the floor is being raised two feet to make room for this innovative system and a new ice slab.

This ensures that whether you're cheering on the Utah Jazz or the new Utah Hockey Club, your view will be exceptional.

Enhanced Infrastructure and Fan Amenities

Beyond the seating, the Delta Center overhaul includes a host of other significant improvements designed to enhance the overall fan experience:

• New Main Entrance and Plaza: Plans include adding an east-facing main entrance and plaza, envisioned as a vibrant gateway to the heart of downtown.
• Improved Concourse Design: Existing plazas and concourses are being redesigned to improve flow and accessibility.
• Increased Capacity & Comfort: Restroom capacity will increase by 12%, and four new dehumidifiers are being installed to maintain optimal ice conditions.
• New Parking Structure: A 450-stall parking structure is also underway, designed to ease access for visitors.

These renovations are part of a multi-year effort, with major interior and exterior construction continuing during future NBA and NHL offseasons. Initial updates were already made in Summer 2024 to accommodate the new NHL team.

A New Era for Sports & Entertainment in Salt Lake City

The Delta Center renovations are not isolated projects; they are a cornerstone of Smith Entertainment Group's broader vision for downtown Salt Lake City. SEG aims to anchor both the NBA and NHL franchises in the city's core, creating a dynamic entertainment hub.

Downtown Redevelopment and Connectivity

SEG's plans extend beyond the arena walls, influencing the redevelopment of surrounding city blocks. This includes:

• Entertainment Corridor: There's a long-planned and much-discussed entertainment corridor that would connect the arena with the rest of downtown, fostering a more activated and connected experience.
• Building Height Adjustments: Proposals include allowing buildings up to 600 feet high around the Delta Center and Salt Palace Convention Center, aiming to create a taller, more vibrant downtown skyline.

These initiatives are backed by significant investment, including nearly $1 billion in public funds, underscoring the commitment to transforming Salt Lake City's urban landscape.

Beyond the Arena: Smith Entertainment Group's Broader Vision

What's new with Smith Entertainment Group isn't just about brick and mortar; it's about a strategic vision to elevate the entire entertainment ecosystem. By investing heavily in infrastructure and fan experience, SEG is positioning Salt Lake City as a premier destination for major sports and entertainment events. This commitment to innovation and community engagement reflects a forward-thinking approach that promises long-term benefits for fans and the city alike.

SEG's co-founders, Ryan and Ashley Smith, have expressed excitement for the challenge, emphasizing their goal to create a compelling, welcoming, and exciting experience for hockey fans while preserving the dynamic atmosphere for basketball.

Conclusion: The Future is Bright with Smith Entertainment Group

Smith Entertainment Group is clearly not standing still. With the ambitious Delta Center transformation and their broader vision for downtown Salt Lake City, they are actively shaping the future of sports and entertainment in the region. These developments promise enhanced fan experiences, state-of-the-art facilities, and a more vibrant urban core.

What are your thoughts on these exciting changes? Have you experienced the Delta Center recently, or are you looking forward to seeing the new developments unfold? Share your comments below and let us know what you're most excited about!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of Smith Entertainment Group's current projects?

Smith Entertainment Group's primary focus is the multi-phase renovation of the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, transforming it into a state-of-the-art dual-sport venue for both the NBA's Utah Jazz and the new Utah Hockey Club.

How will the Delta Center renovations improve the fan experience for both basketball and hockey?

The renovations include an innovative retractable seating system designed to provide optimal sightlines for both basketball and hockey, lengthening the arena bowl, raising the floor, and adding new entrances, concourses, and amenities to enhance comfort and accessibility.

When are the Delta Center renovations expected to be completed?

The Delta Center transformation is a multi-year, multi-phase process, with major construction continuing during future NBA and NHL offseasons. Initial updates for the NHL team were made in Summer 2024.

What other developments is Smith Entertainment Group involved in beyond the Delta Center?

Smith Entertainment Group is also involved in broader downtown Salt Lake City redevelopment plans, including the potential creation of an entertainment corridor connecting the arena to downtown and proposals for increased building heights in the surrounding area.