Construction is now underway on the long-anticipated Mobile Arena, a state-of-the-art entertainment venue poised to transform Alabama’s Port City into a major destination for live events along the Gulf Coast. City leaders and project partners marked the milestone with a groundbreaking ceremony on the 22-acre site formerly occupied by the Mobile Civic Center.
The new arena is a major public-private investment by the City of Mobile and Oak View Group (OVG), the global development firm behind the project. With a targeted completion date in 2027, the facility is expected to host concerts, sporting events, family shows, and community gatherings, including Mobile’s iconic Mardi Gras balls.
“After years of discussion and months of planning, we are beyond excited to see construction officially begin at Mobile Arena,” said Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson. “This will be a game-changer for Mobilians and visitors in our city. It will make Mobile a true event destination — driving tourism and providing residents with quality events to enjoy with their friends, families, and neighbors.”
Mobile Arena’s flexible design will accommodate over 10,000 spectators for major events, while also offering scalable space for smaller functions. Plans include multiple ballrooms, luxury suites, premium seating, and a range of retail and VIP areas, all designed with input from local stakeholders. Architectural firms Goodwyn Mills Cawood and Populous are leading the venue’s design.
“Goodwyn Mills Cawood is thrilled and honored to play a role in such a transformative project happening right here in our own backyard,” said Senior Architect Keith Parker. “This cutting-edge venue will bring live entertainment, concerts, and — of course — our beloved Mardi Gras celebrations to new heights. With the City of Mobile proudly embracing the motto ‘Born to Celebrate,’ we’re more than ready to join in the festivities!”
BL Harbert International, known for major projects throughout the region, has been selected as the construction contractor. Their prior work includes the Arthur R. Outlaw Convention Center and Auburn University’s Neville Arena.
“The new arena will stand as a powerful symbol of Mobile’s unwavering commitment to progress and endless possibilities,” said Dan Price, senior vice president of the commercial division for BL Harbert International. “BL Harbert International is honored to serve as the construction partner helping to bring this vision to life.”
During the ceremony, Oak View Group also announced its first founding partner for the venue — Mobile Coca-Cola Bottling Company. The partnership, secured by OVG Global Partnerships, designates Coca-Cola as the official in-arena beverage provider. The agreement includes product offerings, promotional initiatives, and joint sustainability efforts.
“We’re proud to partner with the City of Mobile on this transformative project and to welcome Mobile Coca-Cola Bottling Company as the official beverage rights partner,” said Dan Griffis, president of global partnerships, Oak View Group. “Coca-Cola is a terrific partner who will help us enhance Mobile Arena’s initiatives through imaginative and creative customer activations across the region.”
Peter Luukko, co-chair of Oak View Group, added, “The Mobile Arena project reflects everything we believe in at Oak View Group – creating world-class venues that serve their communities and deliver unforgettable live experiences. Together, we’re building a destination that reflects the spirit of Mobile while attracting top-tier music, sports and community events to the Gulf Coast.”
Once completed, Mobile Arena is expected to serve as a key venue for entertainment and community events in the region. City officials and project partners anticipate the arena will contribute to local economic activity and provide a modern space for concerts, sporting events, and cultural gatherings, including longstanding traditions like Mardi Gras.
Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
