In Nashville, E.J. Boyer noted Bridgestone Arena will have had around $36M invested into renovations since ’10 with “more upgrades, including a new Wi-Fi system and new seats, on the way next year.” In addition to the new Lexus Lounge, Bridgestone Arena will “open a new Preds fan shop" this year and the team’s official broadcast partner, WPRT-FM, will “move into a new glass broadcasting booth” (BIZJOURNALS.com, 5/21).
MIAMI'S VICE: In Miami, Douglas Hanks notes the Heat see a proposed AmericanAirlines Arena agreement with "higher government subsidies and fixed rent to Miami-Dade County as a more affordable option for the public than having to build the team a new arena." Heat lobbyist Jorge Luis Lopez said that Miami-Dade "needs to contribute something" if the Heat opt to continue investing in the arena and "commit to remain in the facility for at least two more decades." Lopez: "That's the cost of the extension" (MIAMI HERALD, 5/22).
BEAR TRAP? In Chicago, Melissa Harris noted a task force appointed by Mayor Rahm Emanuel has “recommended the parking lots to the south of Soldier Field as the home for filmmaker George Lucas' collection of art and movie memorabilia, should the 'Star Wars' creator choose Chicago over San Francisco for his planned museum.” A city report “does not detail if or where tailgating would be permitted in that area; but grills and open fire pits already are prohibited in the stadium's north garage.” The Bears said that they “were not warned of the task force's recommendation in advance” (CHICAGOTRIBUNE.com, 5/20).
CROWNE JEWEL: In Ft. Worth, Sandra Baker notes spectators at this week’s PGA Tour Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial will “have a new main entrance to the golf tournament.” Tournament officials said that the entrance will “encompass the park area immediately east of the golf course and will feature attractions such as interactive golf games and live music.” Frost Bank is “sponsoring the new entrance venue.” The new areas will be “free to the public each day as well as event ticket holders” (FT. WORTH STAR-TELEGRAM, 5/22).
