activity to this area that we’ve never seen before.” The arena will host not one but two hockey teams: the professional Athens Rock Lobsters and the University of Georgia’s Ice Dawgs. These teams add a dynamic layer of sports entertainment to attract locals and visitors. Akins highlights the broader economic impact of the arena on the community.“Anytime you bring in an attraction of quality and sustainability, it positively impacts local businesses,” he explains.“The arena will help downtown Athens become even more robust. It’s not just about the immediate events— it’s about the long-term opportunities this venue creates for businesses to engage with the community and for consumers to experience something new.” INTERACTIVE MUSIC AND ART Akins Ford Arena isn’t just an entertainment venue— it’s a cultural hub for Athens. One of its most exciting features is the Georgia Music Collection from the University of Georgia Libraries, which will be housed in the arena’s concourse. The collection, transferred 12 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 11
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