For nearly two decades the
Orlando Magic have played at Amway Arena. When it opened in
1989, it was one of the premier arenas in the NBA. However,
since then times have changed and nearly every other team in the
NBA has opened a new arena with new modern amenities including
luxury suites and club seats. For several years the Magic have
been pursuing a new arena. In December 2007 they unveiled plans
to construct a new arena in downtown Orlando along Church and
Hughey Streets. The arena will cost $480 million with the Magic
contributing $50 million, the city paying for the land and
infrastructure, and bonds from Orange County.
The future home of the
Orlando Magic will open for the 2010-2011 NBA season. It will
have a larger seating capacity than Amway Arena with 18,500
seats. The arena will have three seating levels, the lower,
club/suite and upper level. Magic fans will find many amenities
here as it will have 56 luxury suites, 10 specialty suites and
four restaurants. The main 20,000 square foot entrance to the
arena will be very impressive as it will feature a 151 foot tall
glass tower. Amway Arena is likely to be demolished once the
Magic's new arena opens.
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