Onondaga County, ASM Global Syracuse, and the Syracuse Crunch have announced a major interior transformation to the Upstate Medical University Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial, in an effort to elevate the sports and entertainment experience in the Syracuse market.
Onondaga County is making a $2.6 million dollar investment towards improvements at the Upstate Medical University Arena, including brand new lower bowl seating, improved accessibility, and expanded event spaces, upgrading the experience for fans, guests, and event organizers alike.
The upgrades are set to begin this summer and will be unveiled in Fall 2025 in time for the 2025-26 hockey season and the 75th anniversary of the venue.
Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon said, “The entertainment, tourism, and hospitality industries are a vital part of our local economy. As a growing community, it is more important than ever that we continue to make strategic investments in this space. This latest investment to improve seating and accessibility, as well as expanded event space, builds upon the significant investments my administration has already made at the Upstate Medical University Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial.”
For the first time in 15 years, the lower bowl seating will be completely upgraded with American-made, high-quality permanent seats designed for superior comfort and convenience and will be produced and installed by one of the world’s leading manufacturers of audience seating, Irwin Seating Company. The arena’s new seating will feature more space, cushioned seats and backs, premium vinyl upholstery, cup holders and a color scheme to match existing upper bowl seating.
“We are eager to see this renovation start to take shape, starting with the upgrades to the lower bowl seating,” said Peter Casper, general manager, ASM Global Syracuse, which manages Upstate Medical University Arena. “Irwin’s seats are featured in many of the top NHL, NBA, MLB and NFL venues in the country and we are excited for guests to experience the quality and difference when they are installed in our arena.”
Scheduled to begin in Summer 2025, the project will also significantly expand wheelchair-accessible seating for hockey games. Section 123 will be reconfigured to nearly double the ADA seating capacity at games, ensuring more fans can enjoy events comfortably.
The project also includes the removal of lower bowl seating in front of the stage, opening up space for a brand-new, flexible event area. Additionally, new retractable seating will be installed on the stage, allowing for multiple configurations to accommodate any group utilizing this space during Syracuse Crunch games.
Built in 1951, Upstate Medical University Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial is a 6,700-capacity venue, which plays host to Syracuse Crunch home hockey games. The venue also has the versatility to accommodate numerous large-scale events, including ice shows, family shows, car shows, concerts, sports events, and conventions. High-profile events hosted at the arena include comedian Kevin Hart, Disney on Ice, The Doobie Brothers, and more.
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