On Friday, September 26th, hundreds gathered downtown for a groundbreaking event at the $515 million Kalamazoo Event Center construction site, slated to open in fall 2027. The state-of-the-art facility will anchor Western Michigan University basketball and hockey programs, as well as the Kalamazoo Wings, while also hosting 105 athletic contests and 120 concerts, conferences, and community events annually. With seating for 6,500–8,000, the arena is projected to attract 700,000 visitors and deliver $52 million in yearly economic impact. Leaders described it as a transformational project, blending an athletic performance hub with community spaces and modern amenities. Inspired by successful venues nationwide, the center was designed to strengthen downtown vibrancy, boost local businesses, and provide a symbol of pride for Kalamazoo. City officials, coaches, and community partners emphasized the project’s collaborative spirit and its potential to reshape the city’s cultural and economic landscape. Greenleaf Trust Chairman Bill Johnston, Kalamazoo Mayor David Anderson, Greenleaf CEO Tim Rayman, WMU Athletic Director Dan Bartholomae, WMU President Russ Kavalhuna, and several members of WMU and K-wings management and coaching staff were some of the speakers in attendance.
