Outdoor plaza construction

PHOTO GALLERY: Follow along as the construction project progresses  Last updated April 16, 2006 Click on image to view gallery

The funds are being used to create an expansive, multi-functional outdoor plaza area that will better accommodate the needs of large preformed groups, expand the Hall of Fame’s hospitality and private event capabilities, and improve elements of the annual Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony Celebration.

“We are confident that with this capital improvement, the Hall of Fame will attract more out of town visitors that will result in an economic impact on the northeast Ohio region,” commented Dave Motts, the Hall of Fame’s vice president marketing/operations. Sixty-five percent of the Hall’s 200,000 annual visitors come from outside the boundaries of the State of Ohio. The annual economic impact of the Hall of Fame on the Canton/Stark County community is estimated at $51 million.

“Nearly eight million people have visited the Hall of Fame, a 501(c) (3) non-profit educational institution, since we first opened in 1963,” stated Motts. “These visitors, coupled with the annual worldwide media exposure the Hall of Fame receives – especially during the annual Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony Celebration – provide a positive impact on our community.”

Construction on the plaza began in mid-September. After a stoppage of work during the winter months, the project resumed recently and the plaza is slated to be finished by June.