Construction Reaches New Heights at the Kalamazoo Event Center

From a helicopter lifting rooftop equipment to progress inside the arena bowl, construction continues to take shape ahead of the Fall 2027 opening.

If you were in downtown Kalamazoo this past Saturday, you may have spotted a special visitor flying above the Kalamazoo Event Center construction site!

A helicopter took to the skies to help lift and position mechanical equipment onto the building's rooftop, marking another exciting milestone in the venue's construction. The operation offered a unique sight for the community and a glimpse into the work happening as the new arena continues to take shape.

But progress isn't just happening above the building. Crews are making strides inside and out, bringing several key elements of the future guest experience to life.

One Step Closer to Game Day

Inside the main arena, the future seating bowl is beginning to look more like the place where thousands of fans will gather to cheer on their favorite teams and artists.

Crews are currently forming and pouring concrete aisle steps on the precast seating structure. These steps will eventually guide guests to their seats, bringing definition to the arena bowl and offering an exciting look at the spaces fans will experience firsthand when the venue opens.

Shaping the Building's Exterior

Progress is also continuing along the east elevation of the building, where crews are preparing the structural framework that will support the venue's future perforated sunshades.

The steel support tubes are being painted to match the sunshades, which are scheduled to begin installation in spring 2027. Designed with vertical perforated mesh elements, the sunshades will help diffuse incoming sunlight while contributing to the building's architectural appearance.

It's another example of how functionality and design are coming together throughout the Kalamazoo Event Center.

Looking Ahead to Fall 2027

From the rooftop to the arena bowl and everywhere in between, each construction milestone brings Kalamazoo closer to its next premier sports and entertainment destination.

Set to open in Fall 2027, the Kalamazoo Event Center will become the new home of the Kalamazoo Wings, Western Michigan University Hockey and WMU Men's and Women's Basketball, while welcoming concerts, entertainment and community events to the heart of downtown.

Stay tuned as we continue to share the latest construction progress and take you Behind the Build of the Kalamazoo Event Center!