Some of your neighbors are helping design a new and improved Kansas Coliseum.

15 Wichita residents met for the first time Wednesday, after being appointed to a task force to help architects.

Sketches of a new and improved Coliseum have been around for years, but now the ideas need updating. Dave Calvert wants to help.

Calvert says, "I love the coliseum and I think it has great potential."

Calvert's interest is sparked by his handicap. Three years ago, he sued the Coliseum for not having enough wheelchair assessable areas.

Calvert says, "You risk the chance of not being able to see, you risk the chance of not having a place to sit, because seats are full."

For those touring the Coliseum, ADA compliance is at the top for their list.

Coliseum workers hope other improvements will be considered like adding more seats and widening the concourse.

Kansas Coliseum director John Nath says, "You don't want to have to wait for concessions, more comfortable seating, to be able to come early and relax in a comfortable setting."

The 15-committee members have a huge task in front of them. So just where do they begin?

First, they plan to look inside at the seating, then move out all the way to the parking lot.

County commissioners say the skies the limit. Money is not an issue yet.

Commissioner Tim Norton says, "The more input we get about what citizens want and what they'll tolerate, the better off we'll be when we make that decision."

A decision Calvert hopes will make future experiences at the Coliseum enjoyable for all.
Calvert says, "I'd come here more with a different facility."

The Coliseum hasn't been renovated since it was built 25 years ago.