Lightning's Vinik, Hillsborough County To Split Costs For Amalie Arena Upgrades

Lightning Owner Jeff Vinik yesterday unveiled details on a $25M renovation of Amalie Arena "during the next two summers after Hillsborough County officials agreed to split the cost," according to the TAMPA BAY TIMES. The team said that it "plans to redo" the arena's club level, including an "addition of up to 160 loge seats, new concession stands with computerized menu boards, new rest rooms, rebuilt locker areas and performer rooms and hospitality areas." Vinik is fronting the $25M, "half of which the county would later reimburse." Vinik's half of the funding would cover "fan-related experiences" that the franchise will reveal at a later date. Team officials said that the county's half would "cover facility systems and structural items" in need of repair (TAMPA BAY TIMES, 3/5).