Dallas, December 6, 2025
The City of Dallas has revealed preliminary designs for the new Memorial Auditorium arena, which will serve as the future home for the WNBA’s Dallas Wings. This redevelopment is part of the city’s broader efforts to enhance its sports and entertainment landscape. The arena will feature a seating capacity of over 9,000, modern amenities, and will host a variety of events. Construction is expected to be completed by 2027, with the team moving in under a long-term agreement.
Dallas Unveils Designs for Memorial Auditorium Arena, Future Home of the Dallas Wings
Dallas Set to Enhance Sports and Entertainment Landscape
Dallas, Texas – The City of Dallas has released preliminary designs for the Memorial Auditorium arena, which is poised to become the new home for the WNBA’s Dallas Wings. This redevelopment initiative, presented to the Dallas City Council on December 5, 2025, marks a pivotal development in the city’s ongoing efforts to revitalize its sports and entertainment venues.
Key Features of the New Arena
- Seating Capacity: The arena is designed to accommodate over 9,000 spectators in certain configurations and approximately 8,400 for basketball games.
- Event Versatility: Beyond basketball, the venue is intended to host a variety of events, including concerts, esports competitions, and comedy shows, thanks to its flexible design.
- Modern Amenities: The renovation plans emphasize sustainability and modernity, incorporating new materials that contrast with the original brick structure to balance the building’s legacy with a fresh identity.
- Enhanced Fan Experience: The design aims to improve entry efficiency and overall visitor experience, with upgraded team performance areas and amenities.
Project Timeline and Financials
Work on the Memorial Auditorium began in February 2025, with the design phase now complete. Architecture and engineering teams are preparing construction documents, keeping the project on track for completion by 2027. The total cost of the renovation will be finalized during the construction design phase, with components expected to be taken to market in the coming months. City staff are committed to providing ongoing updates to the council as the process advances.
Background on the Memorial Auditorium
Originally constructed in 1957, the Memorial Auditorium is the oldest structure within the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center complex. Designed by architect George Dahl, the arena has a rich history, having hosted performances by iconic artists such as Elvis Presley, the Beatles, and Led Zeppelin. Over the years, it has served as a multipurpose venue for concerts, sports events, and other entertainment gatherings. The current renovation aims to modernize the facility while preserving its historical significance, aligning with the city’s broader efforts to revitalize downtown Dallas.
Impact on the Dallas Wings
The Dallas Wings have been playing their home games at the University of Texas at Arlington’s College Park Center since 2016. The move to the Memorial Auditorium is expected to enhance the team’s presence in Dallas, contributing to the city’s revitalization efforts. The team is anticipated to transition to the new arena under a 15-year, $19 million use agreement, which also includes the construction of a practice facility. However, due to delays in the redevelopment of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, the Wings’ move to the Memorial Auditorium has been postponed to at least the 2027 WNBA season. In the interim, the team will continue to play home games in Arlington.
Key Features of the Memorial Auditorium Arena
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | Over 9,000 spectators in certain configurations; approximately 8,400 for basketball games. |
| Event Versatility | Designed to host concerts, esports competitions, comedy shows, and more. |
| Modern Amenities | Incorporates sustainable materials and modern design elements to balance historical significance with a fresh identity. |
| Enhanced Fan Experience | Aims to improve entry efficiency and overall visitor experience with upgraded team performance areas and amenities. |
| Historical Significance | Originally constructed in 1957, it has hosted performances by artists such as Elvis Presley, the Beatles, and Led Zeppelin. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the seating capacity of the new Memorial Auditorium arena?
The arena is designed to accommodate over 9,000 spectators in certain configurations and approximately 8,400 for basketball games.
When is the Memorial Auditorium renovation expected to be completed?
The renovation project is on track for completion by 2027, with the total cost to be finalized during the construction design phase.
What is the history of the Memorial Auditorium?
Constructed in 1957, the Memorial Auditorium is the oldest structure within the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center complex. It has hosted performances by artists such as Elvis Presley, the Beatles, and Led Zeppelin.
When will the Dallas Wings move to the new arena?
Due to delays in the redevelopment of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, the Wings’ move to the Memorial Auditorium has been postponed to at least the 2027 WNBA season. In the interim, the team will continue to play home games in Arlington.
What is the significance of the Memorial Auditorium in Dallas’s revitalization efforts?
The renovation of the Memorial Auditorium is a key component of Dallas’s broader efforts to revitalize downtown, aiming to enhance the city’s cultural and entertainment offerings and attract more visitors and residents to the area.
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