SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Syracuse Crunch fans can expect a new feel for home games this year.

The team says renovations to the War Memorial will be complete in time for the home opener.

The bulk of the $8.5 million project is happening this month.

The improvements are designed to improve the fan experience: everything from upgrades to restrooms and concessions stands, to a new state-of-the-art scoreboard.

They also added box suites.

"There's 61 NHL and AHL teams, there will be a 62nd this year. And unfortunately Syracuse was only one of two that didn't have the boxes and the revenue that comes along with the boxes. So one of the parts of the upgrade was to include these six new luxury boxes and it really adds to that VIP experience,” said Jim Sarosy, Syracuse Crunch chief operating officer.

The home opener for the Crunch is October 13.