Scottrade Center after 23 years of use is "getting a face-lift in order to continue attracting sporting events and concerts," as phase one of a two-plus-year project officially began Monday, according to a front-page piece by Wes Jenkins of the ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH. Phase 1 is "set to be finished by Sept. 2," and that 10-week time frame "gives an ample buffer before the next scheduled event, an Ed Sheeran concert Sept. 17." The first phase comprises 17 "major projects to update various aspects of the building, from the ice plant that makes and maintains the ice for Blues games, to a new 40-by-40-foot video cube above the rink." Other improvements include "new wheelchair lifts, a curtain system to partition the arena for smaller events, a new sound system and restroom renovations throughout the building." The arena also will "get lighting and signage updates to continue attracting NCAA tournament games." Other visible improvements include a "section of new 'theater boxes' and a new outdoor biergarten." The theater boxes will come "complete with food, cocktails and a luxury view." The boxes are "more flexible than traditional boxes, offering more open seating for groups of two to eight people." Blues Group VP/Sports & Entertainment Operations Alex Rodrigo said that the boxes were an "effort to provide something innovative." The biergarten will "not be limited to event ticket-holders." Situated outside the arena, the space will "serve food and drinks year-round." The St. Louis Board of Aldermen approved $64M in bonds in January to "help finance the renovations" (ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH, 6/29).
