Gampel Pavilion’s Wi-Fi will be upgraded this winter and other potential longer-term improvements will be studied as part of plans to improve the fan experience at the iconic on-campus venue.

The UConn Board of Trustees recently approved a planning budget to launch the Wi-Fi improvement project and conduct a market survey to assess demand for premium seating at Gampel. That review will also identify ways to add and expand revenue-creating opportunities inside the arena.

The Wi-Fi improvements already are underway. A technology consulting firm recently surveyed the radio frequencies throughout the building, and additional network access points will be added to bolster service based on those findings.

All told, fans are expected to see improvements in their wireless connectivity possibly as early as mid-January.

Separately, UConn recently unveiled several other upgrades at Gampel, including new videoboards that are seven times larger than the previous displays, a state-of-the-art lighting system, and graphics celebrating UConn’s basketball history and success.

“We are steadfastly dedicated to enhancing our facilities for the benefit of both the student-athlete and fan experiences. … We will continue to examine the addition of appealing, fan-friendly elements to make future game days even more enjoyable,” UConn Athletics Director David Benedict says.

Wi-Fi connectivity has historically been challenging inside Gampel. That’s both because of its design – lots of concrete, a high roof with wide open space below, various nooks and crannies in its 171,000 square feet – and because demand has spiraled with the growth of cellphones and other wireless devices.

It improved after a 2019 upgrade, but demand continued to grow and fans in the venue often complain of sluggish connections, especially when Gampel is full and the internet access points are maxed.

The wireless upgrades will also be a benefit to the thousands of people who visit the nearly 35-year-old arena for commencement ceremonies, career fairs, and many other programs held there.

The wireless connectivity improvements are part of a multiyear initiative supported by $100 million from the State of Connecticut to upgrade Gampel, one of several projects approved for funding in a five-year extension of the UConn 2000 program.

UConn will also study the potential for additional concessions in Gampel and an area for high-end events to cultivate donors. That area would double as a student-athlete dining facility to be used year-around and address Title IX equity issues.

UConn Athletics anticipates a return on investment of at least $2.5 million annually over 10 years due to the improvements, while also providing fans with a better in-game experience and enhancing the support services for hundreds of student-athletes.

Gampel Pavilion opened Jan. 27, 1990, when the men’s basketball team defeated St. John’s. It has undergone multiple updates since then, including replacement of the wood court last year and major roof and ceiling updates in 2017.

The University also will use some of the state allocation to expand academic and research programs at its Korey Stringer Institute, which is housed in Gampel and named for the Minnesota Vikings defensive lineman who died from exertional heat stroke in 2001.

In the time since its founding in 2010, the institute has become internationally recognized as an expert resource in the areas of heat and hydration, injury prevention, and strength and conditioning for athletes, laborers, and others whose exertions may pose health concerns and the risk of sudden death.

The Gampel improvements complement separate but equally impactful upgrades planned at the XL Center. That downtown Hartford venue is managed by the Capitol Region Development Authority, and UConn holds many of its basketball and hockey games there under a contract agreement.

The XL Center will undergo notable upgrades to selected seating areas and new premium seating options, the most significant renovations to occur there since it opened in 1975, Benedict says.

“We are extremely excited about the transformations to our two home venues, which will more appropriately reflect the pride and expectations for the Basketball Capital of the World,” Benedict says.

“The forthcoming enhancements to Gampel Pavilion and XL Center are a testament to the student-athletes, coaches, and staff who have laid the foundation for our basketball greatness, and the legions of UConn fans who have been committed to our mission for excellence,” he says.