Carrier Dome Celebrates 35 Years: 'It Defines What Syracuse is All About'. Dome, sweet Dome. The Carrier Dome opened in 1980, built to replace an older, smaller stadium. Now celebrating it's 35th Anniversary, it has become an iconic part of Syracuse's landscape. Time Warner Cable News reporter Alana LaFlore has a look at the Dome's past, present and future. SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Thirty-five years ago this weekend on September 20, the Carrier Dome opened.