SAN ANTONIO – The San Antonio City Council has unanimously approved a plan for major renovations to the Alamodome.
Councilmembers made the decision Thursday morning, approving up to $41 million for construction and another $1.2 million to design and oversee the construction.
"The project gives us the ability to compete nationally for these marquee events," said San Antonio Sports and Entertainment Facilities Director Mike Sawaya. "It really puts the building on par with others in other cities."
The stadium's massive renovation includes the demolition and expansion of the dome's north plaza, expansion of each level of the east and west concourses, a new outdoor terrace level and locker room renovations.
Alamodome General Manager Nicholas Langella says the changes will keep the arena on the short list for major events, including the newest big-ticket sporting event: the College Football Playoff National Championship.
City leaders believe the unanimous vote will ensure a bright future for the dome, but District 2 Councilman Alan Warrick is more excited about what this project means for residents on the city's East Side.
"For many years, they've had promises of economic development and connectivity to downtown and that really hasn't happened until fairly recently," he said.
Warrick said he believes creating a seamless connection between Hemisfair Park, the convention center, the dome and the East Side will allow revenue to flow into an area that could use an economic boost.
"That prosperity really hasn't crossed over," he said. "It could allow tourism dollars to flow into District 2, which is almost unheard of."