Gampel's Wi-Fi Signal Getting A Big Boost, UConn Officials Say

STORRS, CT — The University of Connecticut has announced an overhaul to the wi-fi system at Gampel Pavilion.

The upgrade will be worked on this winter.

Other long-term improvements will also be studied, officials said, including a market survey to assess demand for premium seating at Gampel.

A technology consulting firm recently surveyed the radio frequencies throughout the building, and "additional network access points will be added" to boost the signal, and the effects could be experienced as early as mid-January, officials said.

Other upgrades mentioned for Gampel include new video boards that are seven times larger, a state-of-the-art lighting system and graphics commemorating UConn basketball.

Wi-Fi signals have presented a challenge to UConn over the years at Gampel because it has considerable concrete, a high roof and various nooks and crannies in its 171,000 square feet. Connectivity improved after a 2019 upgrade, but demand continued to grow and fans in the venue often complain of sluggish connections, especially when Gampel is full and the internet access points are maxed-out, officials said.

The wireless upgrades will also benefit commencement ceremonies, career fairs, and other programs staged at Gampel, officials said.

The wireless connectivity improvements are part of a multiyear initiative supported by $100 million from the State of Connecticut to upgrade Gampel, one of several projects approved for funding in a five-year extension of the UConn 2000 program.

UConn will also study the potential for more concessions in Gampel and an area for "high-end events to cultivate donors," officials said. The area would double as a student-athlete dining facility to be used year-around and address Title IX equity issues, officials said.

UConn's athletic department anticipates a "return on investment" of at least $2.5 million annually over 10 years with the improvements, officials said.

Gampel Pavilion opened on Jan. 27, 1990.