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Blue Cross Arena Upgrades Project

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The Blue Cross Arena at the War Memorial was originally constructed in the 1950s and underwent a major renovation and expansion in the mid-1990s. It is currently home to the Rochester Americans AHL hockey team and the Rochester Knighthawks NLL lacrosse team as well as hosting many special events, shows and concerts throughout the year.

This project is part of the broader ROC the Riverway initiative. Additional information about the ROC the Riverway initiative can be found at https://www.cityofrochester.gov/ROCtheriverway/ .   

Blue Cross Arena Upgrades - Phase 1: Exchange Blvd Addition

This project, completed in Summer 2021, consisted of a combination of upgrades to enhance the patron experience at the arena as well as improvements needed for operational and maintenance reasons. The work consisted of: 

  • Audio/Visual System Upgrades - Including arena bowl loudspeaker system replacement, distributed speaker upgrades, audio and video controls and infrastructure upgrades. 
  • Public Restroom Upgrades - including lavatory partition replacements, faucet and flush valve replacements, finish upgrades and general repairs. 
  • Exchange Boulevard Addition - Addition on Exchange Boulevard side of Arena facilitated a new locker room suite in what was operations office space. The new locker room serves the home lacrosse team and visiting hockey teams and also functions as additional dressing room space for large show productions. The relocated offices are housed in the new addition along Exchange Boulevard. The second floor of the addition expanded the existing concourse level concessions area. 

The project was funded by grants from the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York. 

Blue Cross Arena Upgrades – Phase 2: Riverside Addition

The next phase of upgrades to the Blue Cross Arena includes a multi-story expansion and modernization on the riverside of the arena to create an expanded high-quality space compatible with the functional needs of the arena for an improved patron experience that enhances viewing of arena events and the Genesee River simultaneously.  The project includes, but is not limited to, reconfigured suites to create Club Seating on the third level, expanded space for tables and chairs next to concessions area on the second level,  and updated riverside meeting rooms on the first level.  

As of 2023, project design is under way. Construction is tentatively anticipated in 2025. This schedule is subject to change.