More fan amenities and more arena concerts. A story by WCCO hints that’s some of what’s in the works as plans for renovations at Target Center move ahead.
When the state legislature okayed the $975 million Vikings stadium, they also included $100 million for renovations to the downtown arena. The deal, which allowed the city to pay for updates, has never been the political football that the Vikings stadium has become.
The WCCO report said that as negotiations continue between the city, the Timberwolves and arena manager, AEG “… there’s reason to believe they’re hoping to make Target Center a destination for concert goers.”
The report adds that upgrades for the concourse and loading docks are in the plan, as well as the addition of fan amenities present in other new sports facilities.
A report last month indicated the deal would have the city kick in about $50 million of the renovation costs, with the balance from the team and AEG. TwinCitiesBusiness reported the negotiations were low-key, with the Wolves indicating the team would contribute a larger share than AEG to the project.
City and team officials still say they hope to meet a December deadline for the final agreement, which would allow the renovations to begin this summer.
A Target Center spokesman told WCCO that Target Center will remain open for games and other events while the work is going on.
