The new high-definition Daktronics scoreboard at Tampa Bay Times Forum “will be the largest single-hung board in the United States and Canada,” according to Damian Cristodero of the TAMPA BAY TIMES. The scoreboard, “expected to be installed by Sept. 23, is yet another part of the transformation of the 16-year-old building.” It began last summer “with a renovation that, with the final accounting done, cost $42 million, the team said -- $2 million more than previously announced.” The scoreboard “is another $5 million, all paid for by Lightning owner Jeff Vinik.” Replacing the scoreboard “became a necessity after the company that in 2007 constructed and installed the current $4 million board went out of business.” Lightning COO Steve Griggs said that “that made repairs difficult.” Cristodero noted lengthwise, the LED video boards “will be 50 feet wide, 28 feet high,” and those “facing the arena ends will be 20 feet wide, 28 feet high.” The video boards “will be integrated with the existing LED ribbons circling the arena bowl,” which Griggs said will create "a seamless presentation fans will really enjoy” (TAMPA BAY TIMES, 6/21).
