Good news for Seattle’s NHL dreams today as Seattle City Council voted in favour of the Seattle Center Arena project. Approval of the renovation project clears one more hurdle for the potential future expansion team.
OFFICIAL: Seattle City Council unanimously approves Seattle Center Arena project!
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— NHL Seattle (@NHLSeattle_) September 24, 2018
Seattle’s NHL Dream Takes Another Step Forward.
This move is another positive step forward for hockey fans in the Emerald City. Who have already agreed upon their Arena, previously home to the Seattle SuperSonics. It was a long 15-month negotiation between the owners and Seatle City Council. But both are keen to keep the momentum going with a dramatic renovation plan. Estimating to be a $700 million dollar renovation of the historic arena. With the CEO Tod Leiweke at the helm and advisors such as Dave Tippett, the Seattle Organisation aims to have General Manager by Spring 2019. Although further talks are scheduled with the board late fall, there is a positive vibe.
Expansion Dreams
With the success of the Vegas Golden Knights, who were last years expansion team. It’s easy to see why excitement is growing in Seattle. They would be the 32nd team in the NHL, and already strategically placed around other hockey states. However, the league has yet to give them the green light. So there are yet more hurdles to overcome. Although unfaced by this, this team already have a loyal fan base. As it has been reported to have sold out season ticket deposits already. Clearly, Seattle is itching for a winter sport to return.
It was previously reported that the NHL Board of Governors could vote on final approval for the Seattle franchise at the December meetings. The Franchise fee is expected to be $650 million.
Main Photo By Cliff from Arlington, Virginia, USA – KeyArenaUploaded by Dolovis, CC BY 2.0, Link
