MSG execs led a dozen reporters Friday on a tour of the arena, which is near completion of Phase II of its renovation. MSG President & CEO Hank Ratner said that of the Garden's 58 new mid-height Madison Level suites, only four remain unsold. Ratner also showed off the new sixth-floor, wood-panel ceilinged Madison Concourse, the return of 1,000 upper-level Blue Seats, and the luxurious Madison Club, whose clients received seats to all sporting events held at the arena. Asked about the possibility of title sponsorships for the Madison Concourse and Madison Suites, Ratner said, "Announcements to come."
Because of an NHL bylaw that forbids comments by team execs on collective bargaining, Ratner could not speak about the NHL lockout. But with the Knicks' NBA schedule starting with the home opener on Nov. 2 – in what will now likely be the debut of this renovation stage – and several concerts booked, MSG will be occupied on most nights. The Rangers' home opener is scheduled for Nov. 1. The final phase of renovation, which includes a new lobby and a walkway over the playing surface, will be next summer.
