The Hartford-area’s new economic development authority is seeking proposals for managing two major entertainment venues: Hartford’s XL Center and East Hartford’s Stadium at Rentschler Field.
The Capital Region Development Authority is assuming responsibility for both venues and is considering proposals for joint management of the two facilities or individual proposals for each venue.
“Ideally these sites would be managed by a single entity who vision includes a coordinated strategy to attract sports and entertainment to the area,” CRDA Executive Director Michael Freimuth said. “Both venues offer tremendous potential to bring additional activity to the Hartford region and bolster the statewide economy.”
Under a contract set to expire in August, 2013, AEG Management CT, LLC operates the XL Center and the American Hockey League’s Connecticut Whale. The stadium is currently managed by Bushnell Management Services LLC.
Chuck Steedman, senior vice president and general manager of AEG Connecticut, said AEG intends to submit a bid in the proposal process.
“AEG recognizes the XL Center’s role as an economic driver to the city, and to this end, has invested millions of dollars in the region while working tirelessly towards maximizing world-class sports and entertainment content at the venue,” Steedman said, in a statement. ” AEG is extremely proud of its accomplishments and is eager to continue building on these successes well into the future.”
The Bushnell could not immediately be reached for comment today.
The CRDA is expected to make a decision by January.
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