Our city’s sporting legacy is deeply intertwined with the legendary performances at the Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum—home to historic moments from the Phoenix Suns and Roadrunners. This cherished venue is more than just a building; it’s a symbol of our community’s passion, resilience, and unwavering spirit. Yet, the Coliseum is now at a crossroads, desperately in need of a revival.

Restoring the Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum is not just about preserving history—it’s an investment in our future. A modernized Coliseum would seamlessly blend heritage with innovation, using proven restoration strategies to ensure its long-term viability. Structural reinforcements would safeguard its foundation, while upgraded seating, acoustics, and digital displays would enhance the fan experience. Sustainability measures—such as energy-efficient lighting and water recycling systems—would reduce costs while aligning with modern environmental standards. Expanding accessibility and safety features would allow for greater inclusivity and ease of movement, ensuring that every visitor feels welcome.

Beyond sports, the Coliseum could be revitalized as a multi-purpose venue, hosting concerts, exhibitions, and community events to maximize its year-round relevance. But most importantly, its restoration presents an opportunity to uplift Phoenix’s most vulnerable populations by creating jobs, stimulating local businesses, and providing economic security for low-income and unhoused residents. Renovation efforts would generate employment in construction, maintenance, and hospitality, offering stable income opportunities for those in need. Once reopened, the Coliseum could serve as a catalyst for workforce development, providing training programs and apprenticeships in event management, concessions, security, and facility operations.

Additionally, the restoration project could encourage partnerships with local organizations to support transitional employment for unhoused individuals, offering them pathways to financial independence. A thriving Coliseum would attract foot traffic to nearby businesses, boosting local shops, restaurants, and vendors—many of which are owned by hardworking residents seeking economic stability. Other cities have successfully revitalized historic venues, transforming them into sources of community pride, economic prosperity, and inclusive opportunity. Madison Square Garden, Fenway Park, and Soldier Field stand as testaments to what’s possible with thoughtful restoration.

Phoenix has never been a city that stands idle in the face of change. This is our opportunity to take action, rally behind the restoration effort, and breathe new life into a venue that has meant so much to so many. Now is the time to ensure that future generations experience the magic and energy that made the Coliseum legendary while using its revival as a powerful tool for economic uplift. Let’s come together, advocate for renewal, and invest in a future that benefits every member of our community—because our city, our people, and our legacy deserve it.