The project incorporated a new basketball court certified by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), according to official information
SANTO DOMINGO.– The recent renovation of the Banreservas Virgilio Travieso Soto Arena involved a comprehensive refurbishment of more than 11,200 square meters, distributed over three levels, with a capacity for 8,270 spectators, consolidating the venue as one of the most modern sports and entertainment spaces in the Caribbean.
President Luis Abinader inaugurated the newly renovated Sports Palace , transforming it into one of the most modern and functional sports facilities in the Caribbean. The project was redesigned and remodeled by the Ministry of Housing, Habitat and Buildings (MIVHED).
The project incorporated a new court certified by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), baskets with FIBA Level 1 specifications, a central high-definition LED screen with 360-degree vision, perimeter screens, a professional sound system, specialized lighting for television broadcasts, fixed and retractable stands, as well as accessible bathrooms for people with disabilities.
The new facilities were also designed to provide better conditions for athletes, according to the official statement published by the Presidency, which also mentions that the establishment has four recovery rooms, four changing rooms for players, four individual changing rooms for referees, four offices for coaches and a fully equipped infirmary.
He adds that in the operational area, administrative offices, machine rooms and electrical systems, monitoring areas and support spaces for maintenance and janitorial staff were enabled to optimize the operation of the venue for sporting and entertainment events.
The Banreservas Arena also features a modern 1,200-ton cooling system, consisting of three 400-ton chillers and 20 air handlers, guaranteeing greater comfort for athletes, artists, and spectators during any activity.
As part of the exterior renovation , the dome, the main facade, and the surrounding areas were fully restored, including new sidewalks and landscaping. Seven suites were also built, including one for the press, two exclusive boxes (Presidential and VIP), and a modern press room equipped for covering national and international events.
With these improvements, the Banreservas Virgilio Travieso Soto Arena is positioned as a multipurpose venue prepared to host high-level sporting competitions, concerts, shows and international events, according to official information.
First competitions
Authorities said the new facilities were designed to provide better conditions for athletes. (External source).
The new sports facility will host the games corresponding to the third qualifying window of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) , heading towards the 2027 Qatar Basketball World Cup, in which the Dominican Republic national team will face the representatives of Nicaragua and the United States.
The hosting of these international events will be the first major test of the renovated venue, designed to meet the highest technical standards and offer a first-class experience for both athletes and the public.
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