LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18)– Due to the pending construction of the new Lexington Convention Center and changes in the exterior of the arena, Rupp Arena will soon become completely smoke-free.
Starting Oct. 1, demolition will occur on the west side of the arena for the preparation of a new entrance into the arena and convention center. The ramp currently located outside of the arena must be removed to accommodate this new entrance. With this necessary change, the designated exterior smoking area will no longer be available for use.
Rupp Arena had previously banned smoking of any kind, including vaping and e-cigarettes, inside the arena as stipulated by Lexington City Ordinance No. 171-2003.
According to Bill Owen, Lexington Center President and CEO, “Removing designated smoking areas has been a growing trend for live sports and entertainment venues. The Yum Center in Louisville and US Bank Arena in Cincinnati have similar policies in effect: All guests are prohibited from smoking (including electronic cigarettes, vaporizers or similar devices) inside or outside the arena within the security perimeter at any time.”
For more information, visit www.rupparena.com
