A decade-long “logjam” over pursuing a major renovation to Hartford’s XL Center arena “could finally break loose later this year, as the state plots a new course for the long-term, competitive survival of downtown’s aging sports and entertainment venue,” according to Kenneth Gosselin of the HARTFORD COURANT. The Capital Region Development Authority “will determine the actual costs of a significant upgrade, now estimated at” $107M. The renovations are “aimed at making the XL Center more competitive with new arenas for events.” A major renovation “would target the addition of premium seating that commands higher ticket prices and new amenities, plus upgrades to the concourse and building systems.” The state approved $65M for the project “three years ago” and it is possible renovations “could start by the end of the year.” CRDA’s Exec Dir Michael Freimuth said that it is likely the renovations “would stretch out over two years, allowing the arena to remain open from October to April to accommodate the basketball and hockey seasons.” The renovations are “intended to reverse the fortunes of a venue that has historically lost money for the state,” typically $2M a year but “higher during the pandemic, closer to” $3-$4M. The premium seating -- include “loge” seating off the concourse, club space under the stands and “bunker suites” at event level -- plus “upgraded concessions are all intended to increase the arena’s revenue” (HARTFORD COURANT, 3/16).
