KALAMAZOO, MI – A major new chapter for downtown Kalamazoo began Friday afternoon as community leaders, local officials, partners, and residents gathered for the official groundbreaking of the Kalamazoo Event Center. The ceremony, held on September 26, celebrated the future venue, now in its first phase of construction, and its expected reshaping of the city's cultural and economic landscape.
The afternoon began with remarks from local leaders, highlighting the vision behind the project and the years of collaboration that made the moment possible. The private ceremony - estimated at 384 - gathered on Water Street to witness the ceremonial first shovels of dirt turned - and the community celebration continued long into the evening outside the Radisson Plaza Hotel and Suites with an estimated 3,000-plus in attendance.
"Two decades in the making, and we're not building just an arena now," Greenleaf Companies Chairman Bill Johnston said. "We are building a true community event center, an athletic performance center that happens to have an arena in it, and 30,000 square feet of flat floor space that will be used by the community as well…we traveled all over the country preparing for this and the one thing I reminded everyone is that, 'these arenas are nice, but we will do better.'??"
Kalamazoo Mayor David Anderson was also on hand to speak at the event. Highlighting how important this project is to ensure Kalamazoo continues to grow and prosper.
"For the city of Kalamazoo, from my perspective, this is an amazing, transformational day," Anderson said.
"I don't want this to be a secret, but I'm fired up. Great cities have great downtowns, and for downtowns to stay great they have to evolve. They need continual reinvestment. What we are recognizing today is not just an investment, but a transformation investment."
The facility is projected to host over 225 events a year with its main tenants being Western Michigan University's hockey program, WMU's Men's and Women's basketball programs and the ECHL's Kalamazoo Wings (Kalamazoo's only professional sports team).
"Friday's ceremonial groundbreaking was a celebration of what this project truly represents—a transformational investment in Western Michigan Athletics and in the city of Kalamazoo," said WMU Vice President and Director of Athletics Dan Bartholomae. "This is more than an arena. It will provide our student-athletes with world-class facilities and performance resources to support their holistic development, while also creating a place for WMU, the City of Kalamazoo and the entire Southwest Michigan community to strategically connect. This project reflects the power of partnership and vision, and we are proud that Bronco Athletics will be at the heart of this new downtown landmark."
K-Wings General Manager and Governor Toni Will echoed Bartholomae's sentiments.
"This arena will be a place where champions are made on the ice or court - but also where memories are made off it," Will said. "A place where local businesses thrive, young people see possibilities, and visitors experience the heart and hospitality of our city. As we break ground today, we're not just constructing a building. We're laying the foundation for a stronger, more vibrant Kalamazoo - together."
Please see the Kalamazoo Event Center Flythrough video attached to experience the future of Kalamazoo for yourself. The video highlights an immersive virtual guest experience and what you can expect to witness once construction is completed.
Fast Facts about the Kalamazoo Event Center
The Kalamazoo Event Center is more than just a venue; it's a cornerstone of downtown revitalization. With over half a million annual visitors anticipated, this space is designed to host a diverse mix of events. See key information below for Kalamazoo Event Center facts and purposes.
Key Dates & Partners
- Official Groundbreaking: September 26, 2025 (Day 269 of the year)
- Partners: Greenleaf Hospitality Group, Western Michigan University and the Kalamazoo Wings
Facility Intent
- Community events, commencements and trade expos
- Venue for professional, collegiate and high school athletics
- National touring concerts and performances
- Family-friendly shows and exhibitions
The facility will also house academic and athletic support spaces for student-athletes, food and beverage destinations, and flexible event rooms to accommodate a wide range of private and public gatherings.
The Event Center is poised to generate more than $50 million in economic impact annually, fueling new opportunities for small businesses, job creation, tourism, and local pride.
BOOK YOUR STAY
We're proud to announce the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites Kalamazoo as the Official Hotel of the Kalamazoo Event Center! Conveniently located in the heart of downtown, the Radisson offers premium accommodations, on-site dining, and first-class amenities - perfect for making the most of your visit.
?? Reserve your room now to stay close to the action and be part of this exciting milestone! Book your stay here.
VISIT TODAY
Kalamazoo Event Center is a once-in-a-generation project that will transform how people gather, compete, celebrate, and connect in Southwest Michigan. We encourage everyone, from curious neighbors to major event producers to visit kalamazooeventcenter.com to learn more.
The newly launched website offers a user-friendly experience with key features, including:
- Project Overview: Learn about the building's design, size, and capabilities, including an 8,000-seat configuration for concerts and shows, a 6,500-seat setup for sports, a full practice ice sheet, multipurpose event space, and a new downtown parking structure.
- Community Updates: Track progress, access renderings and stay informed about key milestones as the project moves toward completion.
- Vendor & Partner Interest: Businesses, suppliers and event organizers can express interest in working with the Event Center by completing an online form.
- Premium Experiences: Get an exclusive first look at how the Kalamazoo Event Center elevates sports and entertainment experiences, setting a new standard for live events in Southwest Michigan.
For inquiries or to express interest in working with us, please visit the CONNECT WITH US page on the website. Also, follow us on all social media platforms @KzooEventCenter.
About Greenleaf Hospitality Group
Greenleaf Hospitality Group (GHG) is a locally owned company committed to exceptional experiences in dining, lodging, sports, and entertainment in Kalamazoo, Michigan. For over 25 years, GHG has welcomed more than 33 million guests and grown to include 15 unique brands, including the Radisson Plaza Hotel, Brick + Brine, Wings Event Center, Kalamazoo Wings, and the upcoming Kalamazoo Event Center. With a team of over 850, GHG continues to foster community connections through innovative guest-obsessed hospitality. Learn more at
greenleafhospitalitygroup.com.
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