James Brown Arena

James Brown Arena. Located in Augusta, Georgia, this multi-purpose indoor arena serves as a major entertainment and sports venue for the Central Savannah River Area. Owned by the City of Augusta, it has been a cultural hub since its opening, hosting concerts, family shows, and sporting events. The facility was renamed in 2006 to honor the legendary Godfather of Soul, James Brown, who was born and raised in the city.

History

The arena's development was part of a broader civic initiative in the late 1970s to revitalize downtown Augusta and provide a modern venue for large-scale events. Construction began in 1978, and the facility opened in 1979 as the Augusta-Richmond County Civic Center. A significant renovation in 1990 expanded its capabilities, and further updates were made ahead of hosting events for the 1996 Summer Olympics. In 2018, a major renovation project updated concourses, seating, and premium areas. Throughout its history, it has been managed by various entities, including Global Spectrum and currently a partnership of Oak View Group and Spectra.

Description and facilities

The arena features a versatile floor plan and a seating capacity that can be configured for approximately 8,500 to 10,000 attendees depending on the event type. Its main bowl is complemented by several luxury suites and club seating areas added during renovations. The attached William B. Bell Auditorium provides a smaller, theatrical venue for more intimate performances. The complex is situated near the Augusta Convention Center and is a short distance from the Savannah River and the historic Augusta National Golf Club. Parking is available in multiple surface lots surrounding the facility.

Notable events

The venue has hosted a wide array of events since its inauguration. It has been a frequent stop for major concert tours by artists such as Elton John, The Jackson 5, Prince, and Metallica. In the realm of sports, it has been the home court for the Augusta University basketball teams and has hosted events like the NCAA basketball tournaments and the Harlem Globetrotters. Family-oriented shows, including Disney on Ice and the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, are also staples. It served as a competition venue for Judo during the 1996 Summer Olympics.

Naming and renaming

Originally named the Augusta-Richmond County Civic Center, the facility was renamed in a public ceremony on January 11, 2006, to honor James Brown. The decision came shortly after the music icon's death on Christmas Day 2005, as a tribute to his global legacy and deep roots in the Augusta community. The renaming was championed by then-mayor Deke Copenhaver and received widespread support from the Augusta Commission and the public. The naming rights are held in perpetuity by the city to honor Brown, rather than being a corporate sponsorship.

Management and operations

Operations are overseen by the City of Augusta's Recreation and Parks Department, with day-to-day management contracted to private firms. Since 2021, the management contract has been held by a partnership between Oak View Group and Spectra, a subsidiary of Comcast Spectacor. These firms handle booking, marketing, maintenance, and concessions. The arena is a significant economic driver for the city, generating revenue through event rentals, ticket sales, and hosting conventions in conjunction with the nearby Augusta Convention Center.

Category:Music venues in Georgia (U.S. state) Category:Sports venues in Augusta, Georgia Category:Indoor arenas in the United States