By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — Renovations are underway to build a new box office and expanded main entrance, among other improvements, for the BMO Center in downtown.
Other improvements include an upgraded Jack Daniel’s Bar, new Grab & Go store, administrative offices and a revamped south end zone upper club. Renovations are expected to be complete by October in time upcoming concerts, shows and opening night of the Rockford IceHogs 25th season.
“As a major economic driver in downtown Rockford, we strive to put the guest experience at the forefront of what we do,” Gretchen Gilmore, general manager of the BMO Center and ASM Global Rockford, said in a news release. “With this next phase of renovations, we are excited for guests to enjoy smoother entry and a better ticketing experience with the new box office and lobby.”
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The nearly 7,000-visitor capacity arena at Elm and Main streets is home to the IceHogs, which brought in more than 157,000 fans last season, and hosts various other live events. The arena is owned by the city of Rockford, overseen by the Rockford Area Venues and Entertainment Authority and managed by ASM Global.
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Upcoming shows include comedian Jo Koy, the Dropkick Murphys, TobyMac, MercyMe and Zach Williams in the fall.
“We expect multiple sell-out shows and look forward to providing guests with top tier customer service and a refreshing modern feel at the arena with upgraded bars, Grab & Go store, and so much more,” Gilmore said.
The BMO Center and RAVE were granted $15 million by the state Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity in spring 2021 for the larger renovation project.
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The past year there have been upgrades to the scoreboard, dressing rooms, roof repairs, club lounges, the sound system, as well as exterior concrete repairs and other improvements.
This summer, the box office and expanded main entrance will be the first aspects under construction. Entrances were blocked off early this month after the BMO Center hosted graduations. Escalators are in the process of being replaced and lower-level administrative offices have been relocated for construction.
Demolition of the existing box office is expected to start in the coming weeks.
“From the moment fans enter the building, they will see and feel the difference,” Ryan Snider, Rockford IceHogs president of business operations, said in a news release. “These upgrades affect nearly every part of the fan experience, so if you have not been to an IceHogs game recently, this season is the perfect time to come back.”
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The BMO Center’s box office has temporarily moved to the Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St. All tickets to BMO Center and Coronado shows may be purchased there in-person between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Friday or by calling 815-968-5222. You can also visit the online box office at coronadopac.org/about/box-office.
This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on Twitter at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas.