NHL team reaches agreement for $600m arena renovation as owner ‘thrilled’ with mayor’s commitment

Mar 6, 2026 - 13:30

The Minnesota Wild have reached an agreement on much needed renovations to the Grand Casino Area Complex.

St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her and the Wild have reached a framework agreement on a $600 million renovation plan for the arena, RiverCentre and Roy Wilkins Auditorium.

An exterior view of Grand Casino Arena prior to the game between the Minnesota Wild and the Anaheim Ducks on November 15, 2025 in Saint Paul, Minnesota. — The Complex is set to receive renovations worth $600 million

The proposal calls for extensive upgrades to the complex, with costs shared by the state, city and the Wild.

An amount of $450 million will go toward the Grand Casino Arena, and the remaining $150 million for the RiverCentre and Roy Wilkins Auditorium.

The complex hosts more than 400 events annually, bringing around 2.1 million visitors to St. Paul and generating $383 million in economic activity.

March is one of the busiest months in the calendar for the area, between Wild games, high school state tournaments and other events.

According to FOX9 KMSP, under the proposed framework, the city plans to finance $162.5 million for the arena by using a half-cent sales tax extension, while the Wild will privately fund $162.5 million.

Another $75 million for the Auditorium will be funded through a partnership between the city and the Wild.

They are also seeking $200 million from the State Legislature.

The Wild has agreed to cover any project overruns and will continue to manage the area through an extended lease.

Speaking about the renovation, Wild owner Craig Leipold said, “Grand Casino Arena has been home to the Minnesota Wild since 2000.

“The arena is one of the most important economic engines driving Saint Paul’s economy.

A general view in the third period of the game between the Nashville Predators and Minnesota Wild at Grand Casino Arena on November 04, 2025 in St Paul, Minnesota. The Wild defeated the Predators 3-2 in overtime. — The Complex hosts more than 400 events annually

An exterior view of Grand Casino Arena prior to the start of an NHL Preseason game between the Winnipeg Jets and Minnesota Wild on September 30, 2025 in St Paul, Minnesota. — The planned renovation also covers the River Centre and Roy Wilkins Auditorium

“It’s booked 150 nights a year with events and entertainment, more than any other in Minnesota.

“Like any 25-year-old building, it’s ready for an update and we are ready to invest in both the fan and victor experience, in the event space, in safety and accessibility.

“We are thrilled that Mayor Her shares our vision for creating an improved entertainment district in downtown St. Paul and is moving this project forward.”

Grand Casino Arena was formerly known as Xcel Energy Centre.

In June last year, Minnesota Sports & Entertainment struck a 14-year naming rights deal with Grand Casino Mille Lacs and Grand Casino Hinckley.

“Grand Casino Arena is one of the largest city-owned assets, and we are responsible for making sure it continues to anchor our downtown and economy,” Her said.

Minnesota Wild owner Craig Leipold watches a video tribute for Marc-Andre Fleury #29 of the Minnesota Wild before a game against the Pittsburgh Penguins at Excel Energy Center on February 09, 2024 in St. Paul, Minnesota. The Wild defeated the Penguins 3-2. — Leipold is thankful the city is supporting the renovations

“This agreement ensures our facilities remain competitive – attracting top performers, cultural events, and, of course, sports.”

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