The Future of the Tacoma Dome

As was mentioned at this week’s City Council meeting, the Government Performance and Finance Committee recently received a completed Tacoma Dome Feasibility Study, which evaluated the strengths and weaknesses of the Dome, renovations needed, and possible uses of the exhibition hall.

Strengths listed include the Dome’s location, accessibility, and visibility. Weaknesses include back-of-house and support spaces, parking, and the cost to use the venue.

The report considers two different scenarios for the future of the Tacoma Dome: one involving a professional sports team, the other… not.

In considering the possibility of acquiring an NBA or NHL team, the report deems that prospect “Not assumed to be a realistic alternative.” The overall costs for this alternative are estimated at $295 million.

The second scenario, for renovating the Dome as a “civic arena” is considered to be the “more realistic” of the two. This scenario would involve improvements to back of house and support spaces; signage; parking; lobbies; seating; exhibit hall renovation; and public area improvements including concourses, HVAC, and a club/restaurant space. The overall cost for these improvements is estimated at $184 million.

As an interesting sidebar, we see a line on the civic arena renovation “wish list” labeled “Warhol Treatnent,” with an associated cost listed of $1,392. That sounds like a bargain…

On a more general note, it sounds like the idea of a pro sports team is off the agenda – are you sad?

Download the full presentation handout from the City here (pdf).