The iconic Honda Center, nestled in the heart of Anaheim and celebrated as the fortress of the Anaheim Ducks, is embarking on a colossal $1 billion upgrade, as announced by OC Sports & Entertainment. According to NBC Los Angeles, this extensive makeover, dubbed "Honda Center Encore", is set to unfold through the year 2027, ensuring that the venue's doors remain open to sports fanatics and concert-goers throughout the transformation.
Bill Foltz, CEO of OC Sports & Entertainment, painted a picture of ambition and commitment to the region and its people. "This is more than just an investment in a venue — it’s an investment in Anaheim and the future of Orange County as a global destination for live entertainment," Foltz stated in an interview obtained by KTLA. This investment promises a facelift and the establishment of a sprawling mixed-use district surrounding the arena, known as OCViBE, amounting to an eye-watering $4 billion extravaganza.
Improvements to the Honda Center will see a substantial overhaul featuring three new parking garages, boosting spaces by close to 60%, a five-story monument entrance complete with a digital display for outdoor events, new escalator systems, and an array of self-service food and beverage spots, as reported by FOX LA. In addition to these enhancements, guests can anticipate new luxury suites and the introduction of opera box suites on the main concourse for that extra touch of opulence.
Further details revealed by Forbes showcase the depth of Henry Samueli's involvement. The billionaire owner of the Ducks, who has watched the Honda Center become a storied landmark since its opening in 1993, sees this major renovation as a crucial investment not just in the venue, but in his vision for OCViBE. "We’re going to be here for a long time," Foltz relayed on behalf of Samueli, signalling a commitment that stretches well beyond the facades of the arena itself.
With the renovations kicked off last fall, Anaheim residents and visitors can look forward to witnessing the Honda Center transform into a beacon for live entertainment and community gatherings. The renovations plan to culminate grandly by summer 2028, just in time to host the indoor volleyball competition for the Summer Olympics slated in Los Angeles. Furthermore, the OCViBE project aims to bring direct tax revenues to the city of Anaheim, with projections sitting at a handsome $10 million annually, primarily from taxes on hotel room stays within the district, as told by KTLA.
