KeyBank's seats are originals from the arena's construction in '96, and many are in need of repairsgetty images
The Sabres agree with the "groundswell of complaints from fans that work is needed in KeyBank Center," according to Mike Harrington of the BUFFALO NEWS. Complaints about the condition of the arena have "exploded on social media this season as the prices of tickets, concessions and merchandise continue to rise." The volume of "discontent with the building itself has reached an all-time high." Most fans "sit in their seats with winter coats on and some sport toques, gloves or scarves because the seating bowl is so chilly." The seats are originals from the arena's construction in '96, and many are "dirty or damaged." Cup holders are "broken and rusted." Some fans said that many bathrooms, particularly on the 300 level, have "not had hot water for many years." Rumblings continue that the Sabres may be "targeting some renovations" for the '19-20 season, which is "expected to be the celebration of the club's 50th anniversary." That, however, would be after the "next major event" in the building: The '19 NCAA Frozen Four. KeyBank Center is "controlled and operated" by Pegula Sports & Entertainment, but it is "owned by Erie County and sits on City of Buffalo land." The Sabres' lease runs through '22. Peter Anderson, press secretary for Erie County Exec Mark C. Poloncarz, said that the county has "not been approached for any renovation funding." He added that the county would "work with the Sabres if they indicated renovations were needed" (BUFFALO NEWS, 3/2).
