Developer secures funds for Dome Site

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) - A Texas developer hand-delivered a financial commitment to build an entertainment megaplex on the former Dome Site.

The Oceanfront land between 18th Street and 20th Street is now just an empty parking lot.

Developer Michael Jenkins has plans to build a "futuristic entertainment megaplex," complete with a Broadway-style theater seating 2,500 people, an ice skating rink, an indoor amusement park and other attractions. The center will be anchored by a large Ferris wheel.

"This facility is going to be a major entertainment venue and I believe it will be something the locals can enjoy just as much as our visitors," Virginia Beach Mayor Will Sessoms said. 

Jenkins had struggled to raise the $150 million needed for project. Beach Councilman John Uhrin says investors have a renewed interest in the location because of all the attention the sports arena proposal brought to the area. 

Virginia Beach locals positively reminisced about the history of the Dome, which was demolished in 1994.

"I just remember it bringing a lot of people down to the area and [it being] good for local businesses," Rachel Friend said.

Jenkins was given his seventh extension to raise the funds needed for the site last month.

Sessoms said the plan should go to city council a week from next Tuesday and a big announcement about the venue is due in 30-45 days.