St. Paul, Minnesota Wild Push For State To Cover Half Of $769M Xcel Energy Center Renovation

Author Krops 02 Apr 2025

Hey there, sports fans! If you’ve been keeping up with what’s happening in the world of hockey and arena renovations, you’ve probably heard about the big buzz surrounding the Minnesota Wild and their home turf, the Xcel Energy Center. The team is making some serious moves to secure a massive $769 million renovation plan, but they’re not footing the entire bill alone. Instead, they’re asking the state of Minnesota to chip in half of that hefty price tag. So, let’s dive into the details and figure out what this means for the future of hockey in St. Paul.

The Xcel Energy Center has been a beloved landmark in St. Paul since it opened its doors back in 2000. It’s not just a hockey arena—it’s a hub for concerts, events, and community gatherings. But after more than two decades of wear and tear, the Wild and their management are pushing for a major overhaul. The proposed renovation isn’t just about sprucing up the place; it’s about ensuring the arena stays competitive in the ever-evolving world of sports and entertainment.

Now, here’s the kicker: the Wild aren’t shy about asking for help. They’re proposing that the state of Minnesota cover a whopping 50% of the $769 million cost. This move has sparked a lot of debate among lawmakers, taxpayers, and fans alike. Some see it as an investment in the future, while others question whether public funds should be used for such a large-scale private project. Let’s break it all down and see where things stand.

Why the Renovation is Necessary

First things first, why does the Xcel Energy Center need such a massive renovation? The arena, affectionately known as “The Barn,” has been home to the Minnesota Wild for over 20 years. While it’s still a functional venue, it’s starting to show its age. The infrastructure needs updating, the seating capacity could be improved, and modern amenities are sorely lacking compared to newer arenas across the NHL.

Here’s a quick rundown of what the renovation aims to achieve:

Upgrading the HVAC system to improve air quality and energy efficiency
Expanding seating capacity to accommodate more fans
Adding luxury suites and premium seating options
Improving accessibility for people with disabilities
Installing state-of-the-art technology for better fan experience

These upgrades aren’t just about aesthetics; they’re about ensuring the arena remains competitive in the league. With new arenas popping up all over the NHL, the Wild can’t afford to fall behind. The renovation is seen as a way to keep fans coming back and attract more events to St. Paul.

Breaking Down the $769 Million Price Tag

Let’s talk numbers, because $769 million is no small chunk of change. The Wild and their management have laid out a detailed plan for how the funds will be allocated. Here’s a breakdown of where the money is expected to go:

Infrastructure upgrades: $300 million
Seating and capacity improvements: $150 million
Luxury suites and premium seating: $120 million
Technology and amenities: $100 million
Accessibility enhancements: $50 million
Miscellaneous expenses: $49 million

As you can see, the lion’s share of the budget is dedicated to essential upgrades like infrastructure and seating. These are the backbone of any successful arena, and they’re crucial for ensuring the Xcel Energy Center remains a top-tier venue.

Why the State Should Cover Half the Cost

Now, here’s the million-dollar question (or in this case, the $384.5 million question): why should the state of Minnesota cover half of the renovation costs? The Wild and their supporters argue that the benefits extend far beyond just the hockey team. Here are a few reasons why they believe the state should pitch in:

Economic impact: The renovation is expected to create thousands of jobs and stimulate local businesses
Tourism boost: A renovated arena will attract more events and visitors to St. Paul
Community benefit: The Xcel Energy Center is more than just a hockey arena; it’s a community hub

Proponents of the plan point to studies showing that investing in sports infrastructure can have a significant positive impact on the local economy. For example, a report by the University of Minnesota found that the Xcel Energy Center contributes over $200 million annually to the state’s economy. With a renovated arena, that number could increase even further.

Opposition to the Proposal

Of course, not everyone is on board with the idea of the state covering half the cost. Critics argue that public funds should be used for more pressing needs, such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. They also question whether the benefits of the renovation will truly outweigh the costs.

Some lawmakers have expressed concerns about setting a precedent for using taxpayer money to fund private projects. They argue that the Wild, as a profitable professional sports team, should bear more of the financial burden themselves.

Despite these concerns, the Wild and their supporters remain optimistic that a compromise can be reached. They’re working closely with state officials to address these concerns and find a solution that works for everyone.

The Economic Impact of the Renovation

Let’s take a closer look at the potential economic impact of the Xcel Energy Center renovation. According to a study by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, the project could create over 5,000 jobs during the construction phase alone. Once completed, the renovated arena is expected to host more events, attracting thousands of visitors to St. Paul each year.

These visitors will spend money on hotels, restaurants, and local businesses, providing a much-needed boost to the local economy. In fact, some estimates suggest that the renovation could generate over $300 million in additional economic activity annually.

Community Benefits of the Renovation

While the economic impact is certainly significant, it’s not the only benefit of the renovation. The Xcel Energy Center is more than just a hockey arena; it’s a community hub that hosts a wide range of events throughout the year. From concerts to conventions, the arena plays a vital role in bringing people together.

The renovation will enhance the fan experience, making it more enjoyable for everyone who attends events at the Xcel Energy Center. Improved accessibility, better amenities, and expanded seating capacity will make the arena more inclusive and welcoming for all.

Comparing the Xcel Energy Center to Other Arenas

To understand why the renovation is so important, it’s helpful to compare the Xcel Energy Center to other arenas in the NHL. While it was once considered one of the premier venues in the league, it’s starting to fall behind compared to newer, more modern facilities.

For example, the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, opened in 2012 and quickly became a benchmark for arena design. Its sleek architecture, state-of-the-art technology, and luxurious amenities set a new standard for what fans expect from a hockey arena. Similarly, the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, which opened in 2016, has raised the bar even higher.

The Xcel Energy Center renovation aims to bring the arena up to par with these modern facilities, ensuring that the Wild can compete on a level playing field with other teams in the league.

The Future of Hockey in St. Paul

So, what does the future hold for hockey in St. Paul? If the renovation goes ahead as planned, the Xcel Energy Center will be transformed into a world-class venue that rivals the best in the NHL. The Wild will have a state-of-the-art home base from which to continue their quest for a Stanley Cup championship.

But the benefits won’t stop there. A renovated arena will attract more events, boost the local economy, and enhance the community experience. It’s a win-win for everyone involved, from fans to businesses to taxpayers.

The Role of Fans in the Decision-Making Process

Fans have a crucial role to play in the decision-making process surrounding the Xcel Energy Center renovation. Their voices can help sway lawmakers and influence public opinion. By showing their support for the project, fans can demonstrate the importance of the arena to the community and the broader state of Minnesota.

There are several ways fans can get involved, such as signing petitions, attending town hall meetings, and contacting their local representatives. Every voice counts, and together, fans can make a difference in ensuring the future of hockey in St. Paul.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the proposed $769 million renovation of the Xcel Energy Center is a significant undertaking that could have far-reaching benefits for the Minnesota Wild, the city of St. Paul, and the state of Minnesota as a whole. While there are valid concerns about the use of public funds, the potential economic and community benefits make a strong case for the state to cover half the cost.

As the debate continues, it’s important for all stakeholders to work together to find a solution that works for everyone. Fans, lawmakers, and business leaders all have a role to play in ensuring the future success of the Xcel Energy Center.

So, what’s next? Keep an eye on developments as the proposal moves through the legislative process. In the meantime, show your support for the renovation by engaging with your local representatives and spreading the word about the importance of this project. Together, we can ensure that the Xcel Energy Center remains a beacon of hockey excellence for years to come.