International sports and entertainment company Oak View Group is preparing to wager at least $20 million that Hartford’s XL Center arena can transform from an aging venue running a $2 million annual deficit to a bustling moneymaker. The Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) and OVG have a tentative deal that would require the Los Angeles-headquartered company to invest $20 million toward a $100 million overhaul of the roughly 15,500-seat arena. Gov. Ned Lamont, in his current budget, lined up $80 million in public funding to cover the remaining costs. XL Center renovation plans call for a significant expansion of premium lower-bowl seating, including the addition of event-level suites; a new dressing room and lounge for performers; and relocation of the stage to increase concert capacity, among other improvements.
https://www.hartfordbusiness.com/article/oak-view-group-confident-100m-renovation-will-spur-xl-center-turnaround-venue-will-draw