Macon-Bibb County officials have unveiled designs for a new multipurpose arena that will replace the aging Macon Coliseum, marking another milestone in a project expected to transform the city's entertainment and sports venue while generating significant construction activity over the next several years.
County leaders presented the plans during a June 24 event at the Douglass Theatre, where nearly 300 attendees viewed renderings and a fly-through video of the approximately 230,000-sq.-ft. facility. According to Macon-Bibb County, construction is expected to begin later this summer with the arena slated to open in late 2028.
Working with Macon-Bibb County, MFA Project Management is leading the project while PBK Architects designed the facility. The Barton Malow and Sheridan Construction joint venture will serve as construction manager.
"This project is going to be transformational," Mayor Lester Miller said during the presentation.
The new arena will be built on the current Macon Coliseum property, primarily occupying existing surface parking areas near Second Street. Construction will be phased so the existing coliseum can remain operational throughout the project, according to the county.
The project also includes extensive site improvements, including parking lot and drive lane reconfiguration, paving and hardscape enhancements. Two parking structures will be constructed as part of the development, including a 300-space VIP garage and a separate 500-space parking deck.
Designed to accommodate a wide range of events, the arena will feature a flexible seating bowl capable of being reconfigured for concerts, sporting events, conventions, family entertainment and community programming. Maximum capacity will reach 12,298 people during center-stage concerts utilizing the adjacent flex hall.
The facility also will include premium seating options, including luxury suites, club suites and loge boxes.
An approximately 30,000-sq.-ft. flex hall attached to the arena will provide additional event space for trade shows, conferences, high school athletic events and community programming. The space also has the capability to accommodate an additional ice sheet.
Project designers emphasized creating strong sightlines throughout the venue.
"There is not a bad seat in the house," said Will Christenbury of MFA Project Management, noting that extensive sightline studies were conducted to optimize seating locations and viewing angles.
The design incorporates several architectural elements intended to reflect Macon's identity. According to PBK Architects, flowing exterior lines represent the Ocmulgee River while the building's alignment points toward Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park. Additional design features include architectural elements inspired by musical staff lines and vinyl records, recognizing Macon's rich musical heritage. Viewed from above, the roof resembles a guitar pick.
"Everything is purposeful and unmistakably Macon," said Melvin Robinson of PBK Architects.
The arena also will include permanent space dedicated to the Macon Sports Hall of Fame, honoring the region's athletic history.
Beyond the building itself, the project includes outdoor plazas and gathering spaces designed for festivals, performances, watch parties and civic events.
Mayor Miller said the new arena is intended to serve future generations while strengthening the community's entertainment offerings and economic development efforts.
The existing Macon Coliseum has served the region for nearly six decades, hosting concerts, sporting events, graduations, professional hockey, arena football and community events. County officials said the replacement facility is designed to meet modern expectations for performers, athletes, spectators and venue operations while positioning Macon to attract a broader range of regional and national events. CEG
