Design team says new arena will preserve local sports and music history while adding modern amenities

Project partners said the new arena is designed with specific local references and spaces to preserve Macon's sports and music history. The early designs include a dedicated space for the Macon Sports Hall of Fame and programmatic elements that reference the Ocmulgee Indian Mounds and the city's musical past.

A host noted the design shows musical motifs and a front-door alignment toward the Mounds, and project staff said the design team intentionally incorporated those elements. Will Christenberry said the team worked with stakeholders — Visit Macon, the chambers and local music groups — to identify memorabilia and artifacts to include in the new facility.

The team also described partnerships with PBK and specialized subcontractors to ensure kitchens, circulation and locker rooms meet user needs. Speakers emphasized an intentional design process that sought input from event promoters, GHSA, school districts and local arts and music groups to make the building reflective of community history while meeting modern operational standards.