The Family Arena St. Charles, a beloved entertainment venue in St. Charles County, is embarking on a significant $13 million renovation project. After nearly 25 years of hosting countless events and welcoming up to 400,000 visitors annually, this refresh aims to modernize the arena and significantly improve the guest experience for years to come.
Bob Schnur, Assistant Director of Administration for St. Charles County, highlights the arena’s enduring importance to the community, stating, “So many people have enjoyed cheering at soccer games, concerts and shows at the Family Arena. Whole generations of high school students have graduated there. Rejuvenating the aging parts of the arena will be our investment in the next generation of memories.” This investment underscores the commitment to ensuring the Family Arena St. Charles remains a premier destination for entertainment in the region.
One of the most impactful upgrades will be the replacement of the lower-level seating. Tom O’Keefe, the marketing and booking manager, explains the necessity for this $3.2 million investment: “The seats are as old as the building. They have endured a lifetime of spills, and they show it—they look dirty, even after we clean them.” Beyond aesthetics, the new seating promises enhanced comfort with thicker cushions. Furthermore, the renovation includes automating the retractable platforms for the lower seating sections, streamlining the setup process and saving both time and labor.
Technology upgrades are also a central focus of the renovation. A $2 million investment will bring new video boards, ensuring a more vibrant and engaging visual experience for attendees at every event. Another significant $5.6 million is allocated to replacing the central heating and cooling systems, crucial for maintaining a comfortable environment within the Family Arena St. Charles year-round.
Beyond these major projects, the $13 million renovation encompasses a range of improvements designed to enhance the overall guest experience. These include:
- Complimentary Guest Wi-Fi: Addressing the demands of modern event-goers, the arena will now offer interior Wi-Fi, allowing guests to easily share their experiences online.
- Updated Concourse Signage: New signage will improve navigation and wayfinding throughout the venue.
- Communication System Enhancements: Upgraded communication systems will contribute to smoother operations and event management.
- Parking Lot Repaving: Repaving the parking lot will improve accessibility and the first impression for visitors.
- Roof Replacement: A new roof will ensure the long-term integrity and protection of the facility.
The addition of Wi-Fi is particularly anticipated by concert attendees, as O’Keefe notes, “This has become a crucial part of the concert-going experience for many people. They want to share photos and videos while they’re attending an event. Right now, many people can’t get signal inside.” With improved connectivity, guests at the Family Arena St. Charles can readily share their memorable moments.
Funding for these extensive improvements is primarily secured through federal sources, with over $10 million coming from ARPA funding and another federal grant. St. Charles County will cover the remaining $3 million, demonstrating a strong local commitment to this important community asset. The renovations are projected to be completed by the fall of 2024, promising a revitalized Family Arena St. Charles ready to continue serving as a premier entertainment destination for St. Charles County and beyond.
