HARTFORD, CT (CelebrityAccess) — Despite massive state budget overruns, Connecticut governor Dannel P. Malloy is planning to seek a $250 million from the state for a major renovation of the city's aging XL Center.
According to the Hartford Courant, Malloy's budget chief Ben Barnes confirmed the governor's four-year financial plan, stating that they would seek $50 million from the state in 2018 and $75 million in 2019.
The renovation would include the addition of a second concourse, as well as changes to some of the arena's entrances and updates to the main atrium area. Also included would be expanded premium seating and improved access to concessions, the Courant said.
The $250 million renovation is in addition to a separate $35 million spent on a recent renovation. Another $3.5 million is now being invested in a new ice-making system under the hockey rink and other improvements.
The upgrades would be a key component in Molloy's plan to attract an NHL franchise to Hartford again. The XL Center used to be home ice for the Hartford Whalers and earier this month, Molloy indicated an interest in bringing the Islanders to Hartford. – Staff Writers
