The Dean E. Smith Center, commonly known as the Dean Dome, cost $34 million to build.
Dean Dome Construction Costs and History
The Dean E. Smith Center, a prominent collegiate sports venue, serves as the home court for the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's men's basketball team. Its construction marked a significant development for the university's athletic facilities.
Opening and Purpose
Opened in 1986, the Dean E. Smith Center was designed to provide a state-of-the-art facility for the men's basketball program. The substantial investment of $34 million at the time reflected the ambition to create a premier venue capable of hosting major sporting events and supporting the team's legacy. This cost covered the construction of the arena itself, along with essential infrastructure and amenities.
Historical Context of UNC's Athletic Facilities
Before the Dean Dome, the university's basketball teams utilized other facilities. For instance, Carmichael Arena, which hosts the women's basketball team, opened much earlier in 1965. The development of the Dean E. Smith Center represented a modern upgrade, providing increased capacity and advanced features suitable for a high-profile NCAA Division I basketball program.
Key details regarding the Dean E. Smith Center's construction and related facilities include:
| Facility Name | Opening Year | Construction Cost | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dean E. Smith Center | 1986 | $34 million | Men's Basketball Team Home |
| Carmichael Arena | 1965 | N/A | Women's Basketball Team Home |
The construction of the Dean Dome was a major undertaking, reflecting the growth and success of the men's basketball program at the University of North Carolina.
