The privately-funded $40M renovation of DC's Capital One Arena will include "new padded seats throughout the venue, a state-of-the-art sound system, modernized concourses" and redesigned concession stands, according to Scott Allen of the WASHINGTON POST. The renovations will begin "after the Capitals' and Wizards' current seasons and are expected to be completed by the fall." The concourses on the 100 and 400 levels "are slated for complete makeovers ... with new flooring, lighting and decor." The purple seats inside the arena "will be replaced by black seats with cupholders." Two premium lounges will be added, while the team store will be updated and "open year-round." A portion of the $40M will go toward "further developing the Monumental360 program, a data-based effort to analyze fan preferences and deliver a more personalized fan experience." The arena will continue to host WNBA Mystics and AFL Valor games during renovations (WASHINGTONPOST.com, 2/8).
TURN OFF THE LIGHTS: In Atlanta, Tim Tucker noted Philips Arena is "expected to get a new name" when the Hawks' current 20-year naming-rights deal expires after the '18-19 season. Hawks & Philips Arena CEO Steve Koonin declined to comment Thursday, but he "acknowledged that likelihood" last fall. The arena is in the midst of a two-year, $192.5M makeover that is "scheduled to be completed" by next season, the last year of Philips' deal (AJC.com, 2/8).
