The Pit Renovation Press Conference Photo Gallery
Nov. 6, 2008
Renovation Renderings in PDF Format 
Photo Gallery of The Pit Renovations
The University of New Mexico Vice President for Athletics Paul Krebs outlined details of the $60 million renovations to University Arena (The Pit) today. Some of the items included in today’s presentation were the addition of 60,000 square feet of new space, the expansion of the concourse, the addition of 40 luxury suites and 300 club seats to the mezzanine level and the new state-of-the-art locker room facilities for Lobo men’s and women’s basketball.
The University of New Mexico has a tremendous tradition of achievement in intercollegiate athletics. The tradition is in many ways tied to and symbolized by University Arena, more commonly known as The Pit. The design process followed the completion of the Program Document for The Pit, which was used to guide the planning and design. The guiding mission:
“Our goal is to create the best collegiate basketball venue in the nation.”
Paul Krebs, Vice President of Athletics
The focus of the design, guided by Molzen-Corbin & Associates, was to maintain and improve the fan experience but not change The Pit. The planning committee was charged with keeping The Pit intimate, respecting its history, keeping the mystique of the arena, maintaining great site lines and the current bowl seating mix and embracing new technology.
As a result, the $60 million arena renovation will include:
60,000 square feet of new space
Doubling the concessions points of sale
Doubling total number of rest rooms
Greatly expanding concourse to enhance pedestrian traffic flow
Extensive glasswork as well as increased ceiling height will allow patrons to take advantage of views including the Sandia Mountains and downtown Albuquerque
New state-of-the art locker room facilities for both men’s and women’s basketball teams
Addition of new weight room and training room dedicated to men’s and women’s basket ball
Addition of Lettermen’s lounge to provide access to UNM Alumni Lettermen from all sports
Increase technology to enhance the fan experience, including video boards, ribbon boards and digital signage throughout the arena
Extensive signage and graphics package to highlight the history of Lobo athletics
Addition of 40 luxury suites and 300 club seats
New commissary to support improved concessions as well as club and suites
The Lobo Store will nearly double its current size
Ticket office will be expanded and relocated
The building will feature a distinct architectural look that will be the envy of basketball arenas nationally