experience. In addition to the music exhibit, the project will feature a 30-foot sculpture in the plaza, a two-story mural inside the arena, and a mural on The Classic Center’s parking deck celebrating Athens’ music history.” The state’s support didn’t stop there. Private fundraising also played a significant role in ensuring the sustainability of the arena. “We had a strong private fundraising campaign,” Cramer adds. “This funding supports the arena’s operation, the Georgia Music Collection, and an endowment to help bring in the biggest and best shows. It’s a community effort from both the public and private sectors.” Akins Ford Arena will serve as a campus for a learning 14 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 11
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