Nationwide Arena $400 Million Renovation Gets Larger Share of Casino Taxes
Posted on: January 7, 2026, 08:06h.
Last updated on: January 7, 2026, 09:49h.
- Casino taxes are supporting the renovation of Nationwide Arena
- The arena is set for a $400 million overhaul over the next four years
Nationwide Arena is planning a $400 million renovation that’s set to begin this summer. The multiyear project will be aided by higher local casino tax revenue.
In December, the Columbus City Council voted to allocate more of its local gaming taxes for the Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority (FCCFA), the public authority that owns the multipurpose arena. The arena is managed by Columbus Arena Management.
This week, the Franklin County Board of Supervisors followed suit, agreeing to dedicate a higher share of its casino money to the arena renovation.
Both Columbus and Franklin County will increase their casino allocation to the FCCFA from 32% to 50% over the next four years. The Nationwide Arena renovation is expected to last through 2030.
Columbus Casinos
The Ohio capital and home to Ohio State University is where Hollywood Casino Columbus and Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs operate. The Scioto Downs racino has only slot-like video lottery terminals, while Hollywood has both slot machines and live-dealer table games. Both gaming properties have sportsbooks.
The increases to the county and city’s casino disbursements will deliver the arena renovation a few more million dollars annually. More importantly, the increased support is expected to help the FCCFA apply for a state grant of around $100 million and a larger bond issue.
The renovation is to modernize the arena that opened in 2000. The facility is the home of the NHL Columbus Blue Jackets and regularly hosts major touring acts.
Just like your home, when your home’s 25-30 years old, you’d like to renovate it and improve it and keep up with the other homes in your area,” Mike Gatto, COO for Columbus Arena Management, told 10 WBNS. “In the arena world, we need to compete with other cities for our talent.”
For being the host city to Hollywood, Columbus receives 5% of the casino’s gross tax revenue collected by the state. About 51% of the state casino tax money is directed to a fund that is dispersed to all 88 counties in the state, with payouts based on population.
Arena Critiques
Arena officials say Nationwide needs an update to remain competitive for A-list headlining acts and other major events. The facility has only undergone minor cosmetic upgrades over the past 25 years.
The renovation will focus on improved concessions and elevating the fan experience. Investments in back-of-the-house upgrades to benefit performers and their operations are also planned.
Phase one, a $60 million development, includes expanding the Front Street entrance to expedite entry and improve accessibility. The construction of a terrace and covered fan entrance, along with a new outdoor venue, is also planned. The creation of an upper concourse food hall and a pedestrian bridge connecting the arena to the McConnell parking garage is additionally set.
Subsequent phases include replacing an aged parking structure, improving building access, and adding “features required to host premier sports competitions and world-class entertainers.” More information can be found here.
Last Comments ( 2 )
Why should gamblers have to pay for renovations on a building that others use? Do what they do in the private sector. Raise the rent on the Blue Jackets and the concert producers!
Schools? Nah. Medical facilities? Nah. Helping Seniors and those on need? Nah. Let’s build a food hall so everyone can enjoy 25 dollar burgers and 20 dollar beers! So. We can pay 150 a ticket to see Lady Goo Goo! 50 bucks to park! And so on….