George Washington University Athletics
Smith Center Renovation Photo Gallery Now Available Online
8/31/2009 12:00:00 AM | General
Aug. 31, 2009
SMITH CENTER RENOVATION PHASES I & II PHOTO GALLERY
WASHINGTON, DC - On Saturday, Charles E. Smith Center hosted its first event, Freshman Convocation, since Phase I of renovations began last February. Now that construction has slowed and staff and teams have begun to move in, GWsports.com gives you an exclusive look inside the new Smith Center.
Inside the main arena, "Tex" Silverman Court has been replaced and repainted to reflect GW's updated Buff and Blue colors. The words "George Washington" run on the baselines and both "GW" and "Colonials" logos appear on the floor in buff and blue, while red Atlantic 10 logos pop off the court in each foul lane.
Chair-back seating has replaced the student-section bleachers, with all lower-bowl seats in blue and upper-bowl seats in yellow, giving the Smith Center a true arena feel. Also, portable baskets have replaced the swing-down baskets to add to the arena décor. Construction of the Courtside Colonials Club lounge and premium seating in the west end zone is ongoing and slated for completion by basketball season.
The majority of renovations in Phase I occurred on the lower level, where Sports Medicine, Academic Support and Strength and Conditioning all received major upgrades, as well as new locker rooms for 12 teams, including men's and women's basketball, and Presidents' Club members. The Smith Center Natatorium received improved lighting and ventilation, filtration and audio systems, as well as a large, tiled "Colonials" wordmark that will be featured behind chair-back spectator seating.
Phase III of renovations is scheduled to begin in late Spring 2010.
