Lincoln leaders push lifting Pinnacle Bank Arena seating cap to attract larger events

Senator Jason Prokop told the committee LB 1192 would remove a 16,000-seat statutory cap on Pinnacle Bank Arena so arena operators and local partners can explore temporary seating configurations and potential expansions to attract larger events.

Tim Savona, general manager of Pinnacle Bank Arena, said lifting the limit would permit consideration of some standing-room or additional-floor seating configurations when events demand them, while preserving compliance with fire-code and safety requirements. The Lincoln Chamber and Visit Lincoln testified the ability to increase capacity — either temporarily or via renovation — could boost tourism, hotel stays and local spending.

Matt Davidson from Nebraska Athletics described how a larger or more flexible configuration could help the university pursue NCAA and Big Ten postseason events and occasionally host marquee volleyball matches that currently exceed smaller-venue capacities. Committee members asked technical questions about how capacity changes would be accomplished; arena operators said specifics would follow if the cap were removed and that safety and egress requirements govern seating changes.

Sponsor and witnesses acknowledged an oddity in the fiscal note that referenced a large turn-back tax figure; proponents said existing financing mechanisms remain available and that the bill was intended to permit discussions and planning rather than immediate construction. The committee closed the hearing and adjourned the day's revenue hearings.