Published on: January 7, 2026, 08:06h.
Updated on: January 7, 2026, 08:06h.
- Casino taxation is financing the refurbishment of Nationwide Arena
- The arena is slated for a $400 million renovation over the next four years
Nationwide Arena is gearing up for a $400 million redevelopment project scheduled to kick off this summer. The extensive undertaking will benefit from increased local casino tax revenues.
In December, the Columbus City Council made the decision to channel a greater portion of its local gaming taxes to the Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority (FCCFA), the public body overseeing the multipurpose arena. Columbus Arena Management handles the venue’s operations.
This week, the Franklin County Board of Supervisors endorsed the move, agreeing to allocate more of its casino revenue towards the arena’s refurbishment.
Both the city and county will elevate their casino revenue contributions to the FCCFA from 32% to 50% in the coming four years. The renovation of Nationwide Arena is projected to extend until 2030.
Columbus Gaming Scene
Columbus, the capital of Ohio and home to Ohio State University, hosts Hollywood Casino Columbus and Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs. The Scioto Downs racino features only video lottery terminals resembling slot machines, whereas Hollywood offers both slot games and live dealer tables. Both establishments also operate sportsbooks.
Increased allocations from the county and city for casino revenue will inject additional millions annually into the arena’s renovation efforts. More crucially, this enhanced funding is expected to bolster the FCCFA’s application for a state grant estimated at around $100 million and a more extensive bond issuance.
This renovation aims to upgrade an arena that originally opened in 2000, serving as the home ground of the NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets while also hosting major performances.
“Just like at home, when your house reaches 25-30 years, you want to renovate and make improvements to keep up with your neighborhood,” stated Mike Gatto, COO of Columbus Arena Management, in an interview with 10 WBNS. “In the arena sector, we must remain competitive with other cities to attract top talent.”
As the city hosting Hollywood, Columbus benefits from receiving 5% of the casino’s gross state tax revenue. Furthermore, approximately 51% of the total casino tax proceeds are allocated to a fund that supports all 88 counties statewide, with distributions based on population numbers.
Criticism of the Arena
Arena representatives assert that Nationwide needs modern upgrades to stay appealing for top-tier headliners and significant events, pointing out that it has only seen minor cosmetic improvements over its 25-year lifespan.
The renovation will enhance concessions and elevate the overall experience for fans. Planned investments will also target backstage improvements to support performers and their operations.
The first phase, involving an investment of $60 million, aims to expand the Front Street entrance for quicker access and enhanced accessibility. This stage also includes the addition of a terrace and a covered fan entrance, as well as the establishment of a new outdoor venue. Plans include creating an upper concourse food hall and a pedestrian bridge linking the arena to the McConnell parking garage.
Future phases will address replacing an outdated parking facility, improving building access, and incorporating necessary features to host premier sports events and world-class entertainers. Additional details will be available here.