Sun Dome to Get a Facelift

It's time to update the Sun Dome.

The Sun Dome, now 30 years of age, is in desperate need of a facelift. The exterior gives the impression it has been abandoned and inside, well, you already know how bad the old bleachers are, how terrible the views can be, and how everything inside is out of date. Not to fear though, USF is on a mission to upgrade every facility on campus and the Sun Dome is next on the list.

The exterior of the Sun Dome will be completely redone, updating the chipping concrete and hopefully getting rid of the mildew that covers the top. The entrances will be reconfigured to help update the appearance of the Dome and give the fans something new when they enter the Dome.

The interior is going to undergo some incredible changes as well to help update the old and decaying Sun Dome. Multiple sources (Greg Auman, USF athletics, etc.) have discussed some of the proposed plans that may be in store. Some report that around 1000 seats will be removed and new seating will be installed, updating the uncomfortable seats and putting in permanent seating in the second level (no more shaking old bleachers). There will be new concessions, even a new wrap around lounge area has been mentioned. A new hanging scoreboard will go overhead as the fans will get a new look on the court itself.

Despite attendance numbers being one of the worst in the nation (already did a small piece on this, but will be putting the USF Nation on blast again) and poor seasons by both basketball teams (next year should be better), USF is going ahead with this major overhaul. Starting next year, the basketball teams will probably end up opening their seasons at the St. Pete Times Forum and on the road as the finishing touches are put on the Dome.

This is going to be an incredible new Dome for all athletics, especially for the basketball program. My days of the old Sun Dome are slowly fading away as the University begins to open up their wallets and upgrade their facilities to keep up with the ever growing world of Division 1 athletics. This is exciting and everyone should be proud that the Dome is getting overhauled.