Officials have been presented details on a proposed new Rochester, MN arena that could accommodate hockey and basketball action.
On Tuesday, a representative from PricewaterhouseCoopers presented the Mayo Civic Center Commission details from a study on a new Rochester arena. As outlined in the study, the arena would cost an estimated $58 million, and have the potential to generate an additional $2.25 million in direct spending annually.
In order for the proposal to move forward, discussion will have to continue among local officials. The project, however, has been touted as having the potential to help the city an entry in the NBA Gatorade League (G League) and/or the USHL. More from the Post-Bulletin:
The spending, [Adam Jones of PricewaterhouseCoopers] estimated, would also fuel a $3.3 million boost to the economy due to related purchases, with the ability to grow existing entertainment options and add at least two sports franchises: a U.S. Hockey League and an NBA G league, which is the National Basketball Association’s official minor league basketball organization.
Brad Jones, executive director of the Rochester Convention and Visitors Bureau, said other potential tenants have expressed interest.
“We’ve highlighted two,” he said of the potential basketball and hockey teams that could call the arena home.
However, Interim City Administrator Gary Neumann pointed out there won’t be a home without Rochester City Council support, which spurred the Mayo Civic Center Commission to ask the council to consider creating a task force for further study.
If constructed, a new facility could replace Taylor Arena, a 31-year-old venue.
Rendering courtesy Rochester Convention and Visitors Bureau.
