The Cumberland County’s Crown Event Center Committee voted on April 20 to accept the project framework for the site selection, design, and construction of a new multipurpose event center to replace the Crown Theatre and Arena

The project schedule outlined general timelines for site selection, land procurement, as well as design, construction and moving into the new building.

The theatre and arena is anticipated to close in November 2025.

The company that manages the Crown Complex, hired Conventions, Sports and Leisure International in January 2020 to conduct a study related to replacing the two facilities. The research showed that stakeholders and the public desire a sustainable venue that brings top events and provides space for community users. 

Based on the study it is recommended to build an 89,000- square- foot multipurpose venue with a maximum capacity of 2,500 people. The estimated cost would be $75-$85 million and does not include the purchase of a site. 

During the meeting, commissioners expressed interest in making sure the project is completed by the October 2025 deadline, obtaining an updated cost estimate for the project, and ensuring the public has sufficient input into project development.

The next step is for the Board of Commissioners to discuss the committee structure and outlining authority levels, finalizing the guiding principles, site selection and developing a design and creating a construction request for quotes (RFQ) during the May 2 regular meeting.