(ABC 6 News) — Taxpayers may be footing part of the bill for major improvements to several entertainment venues.
The project calls for $600 million for improvements to Grand Casino Arena, the RiverCentre, and Roy Wilkins Auditorium.
The first phase of the project focuses on Grand Casino Arena with focuses on bathroom upgrades for hockey fans and more.
St. Paul would put forward $162.5 million through sales tax, and the Minnesota Wild would match that total. However, it is dependent on state lawmakers agreeing to give $200 million in taxpayer dollars to the project.
We need to keep these venues modern, safe, accessible, up to date for visitors across the state, and beyond. That’s why I’m very proud to invest in this partnership, with Mayor Her, and the City of St. Paul,” said Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leipold.
St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her says she is already talking to lawmakers about the request.
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