What's happening? Caguas will build a completely new coliseum with capacity for up to 6,500 spectators, transforming the space that previously housed the Cancha Héctor Solá Bezares. Mayor William Miranda Torres announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved the full replacement of the structure after years of sustained effort since Hurricane María in 2017.
The venue is projected to be ready between May and August of 2028, and demolition of the current arena will begin in late October of this year. Miranda Torres made the announcement at the Cancha Roger Mendoza, current home of the Criollos and Criollas de Caguas of the Baloncesto Superior Nacional.
Why does it matter? The new structure will allow Caguas fans to enjoy a range of sports and entertainment activities in a space designed for multiple purposes. Its flexibility, Miranda Torres noted, will allow it to host basketball seasons, boxing, wrestling, summer camps, graduations, volleyball, ice skating, gymnastics, assemblies and Paso Fino competitions, among other events.
What sets it apart?
Local firm CMA Architects & Engineers designed a three-level structure (a basement and two levels above the floor) that includes:
Capacity: Between 6,000 and 6,500 spectators.
Amenities and services: Restaurants, VIP lounges, a club house, display areas for vendors and sponsors, high-tech sound for festivals and concerts, concession spaces, executive suites, offices, fan shops, restrooms, large dressing rooms, gyms, modern seats and bleachers, and a medical services area.
Electrical backup: Full-capacity generator.
Design firm: CMA Architects & Engineers is locally based and provides services in Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, the United States and Latin America.
The process. The mitigation company is already working on the site, and Miranda Torres explained that the cleanup and demolition process should begin within the next two weeks.
Miranda Torres thanked engineers, architects, contractors and all the agencies involved, noting that the city has demonstrated success in executing complex projects with clear goals. "This achievement belongs to all the residents of Caguas and to every Criollo and Criolla who dreams of a stronger, more vibrant and united city," he said.
This content was translated with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
