St. Paul Eyes $200M Upgrade for Xcel Energy Center and Downtown Venues
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A proposed $200 million investment aims to revitalize St. Paul’s downtown entertainment and convention district, wiht substantial renovations planned for the Roy Wilkins Auditorium and improvements to the Xcel Energy center and RiverCentre.
“Project Wow”: Enterprising Plan to Boost Downtown St. Paul
Dubbed “Project Wow,” the initiative seeks to inject new energy and safety into downtown St. Paul by modernizing key facilities. The proposal includes $150 million for extensive renovations to the Roy Wilkins Auditorium and an additional $50 million for upgrades to the RiverCentre,which opened two years prior to the Xcel Energy Center. The RiverCentre improvements aim to attract and accommodate larger conventions.
Xcel Energy Center to Receive Crucial Upgrades
The Xcel Energy Center, home of the Minnesota Wild, would see significant improvements to enhance the fan experience and operational efficiency. Plans include adding a second escalator to improve crowd flow, as well as upgrading bathrooms, kitchens, and locker rooms.
U.S.Hockey Hall of Fame Relocation Proposed
In a move that could further enhance the area’s appeal,there is a proposal to relocate the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame from Eveleth to St. Paul.
Construction Could Begin in 2026
City officials anticipate that construction could begin as early as 2026,pending legislative approval of the funding request. To minimize disruption, the work would be conducted in phases to keep the complex as open as possible for scheduled events.
Downtown employers Voice Strong Support
Before approaching the city, proponents of the project consulted with CEOs of several major area employers, who voiced strong support for the revitalization effort. The belief is that increased activity and foot traffic will contribute to a safer and more vibrant downtown environment.
What specific improvements are planned for the RiverCentre to attract larger conventions?
St. Paul Eyes $200M Upgrade for Xcel Energy Center and Downtown Venues
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A proposed $200 million investment aims to revitalize St. Paul’s downtown entertainment and convention district, with ample renovations planned for the Roy Wilkins Auditorium and improvements to the Xcel Energy Center and RiverCentre.
“Project wow”: Enterprising Plan to Boost Downtown st. Paul
Dubbed “Project Wow,” the initiative seeks to inject new energy and safety into downtown St.Paul by modernizing key facilities. The proposal includes $150 million for extensive renovations to the Roy Wilkins Auditorium and an additional $50 million for upgrades to the rivercentre, which opened two years prior to the Xcel Energy Center. The RiverCentre improvements aim to attract and accommodate larger conventions.
Xcel energy Center to Receive Crucial Upgrades
The Xcel Energy Center, home of the Minnesota Wild, would see significant improvements to enhance the fan experiance and operational efficiency.Plans include adding a second escalator to improve crowd flow, as well as upgrading bathrooms, kitchens, and locker rooms.
U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Relocation Proposed
In a move that could further enhance the area’s appeal, there is a proposal to relocate the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame from Eveleth to St. Paul.
Construction Could Begin in 2026
City officials anticipate that construction could begin as early as 2026, pending legislative approval of the funding request. To minimize disruption, the work would be conducted in phases to keep the complex as open as possible for scheduled events.
Downtown employers Voice Strong Support
Before approaching the city, proponents of the project consulted with CEOs of several major area employers, who voiced strong support for the revitalization effort. The belief is that increased activity and foot traffic will contribute to a safer and more vibrant downtown environment.
Project Wow: Your Questions Answered
What exactly is “Project Wow”?
Project Wow is a $200 million initiative designed to modernize and revitalize St. Paul’s downtown entertainment and convention district.It aims to improve the Roy Wilkins Auditorium, RiverCentre, and Xcel Energy Center.
Which venues are included in the upgrades?
The project encompasses the Roy Wilkins Auditorium (major renovations), RiverCentre (upgrades to attract larger conventions), and the Xcel Energy center (improvements for fan experience and operational efficiency).
What specific improvements are planned for the Xcel Energy Center?
Plans include adding a second escalator to ease crowd flow, along with upgrades to bathrooms, kitchens, and locker rooms.
What about the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame?
There’s a proposal to relocate the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame from Eveleth to St. Paul. This could substantially boost the area’s appeal.
When is construction expected to begin?
Construction is tentatively scheduled to begin as early as 2026, pending legislative approval of the funding.
How will the renovations affect events?
The work will be phased to minimize disruptions, keeping the venues open for scheduled events as much as possible. Think of it like a hockey game – the show must go on!
Why are downtown employers supporting this project?
Downtown business leaders believe increased activity and foot traffic will create a safer and more vibrant downtown environment, benefiting both residents and businesses.
Trivia Time!
Did you know that the Xcel Energy Center opened in 2000 and the RiverCentre in 1998?
Ready to witness the conversion? Stay tuned for updates on Project Wow and how it will reshape St. Paul’s entertainment landscape.
