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Higher Cost Estimate In New Phoenix Arena Deal Document

Upper level concourse at arena
Christina Estes/KJZZ
The first of five public meetings to gather community input took place at Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix on Jan. 5, 2019.

There are more financial details surrounding the proposed arena deal between the city of Phoenix and the Phoenix Suns. It’s the first time the city has publicly shared a breakdown of what it will cost to renovate Talking Stick Resort Arena.

The information comes after the city held five public meetings  to gather input and less than a week before the council is set to vote on the city-owned arena.

Originally pitched as a $230 million renovation, the preliminary cost estimate is now $234.9 million. The biggest chunk — nearly $100 million — would cover new mechanical, electrical, plumbing and communication systems. More than $26 million would cover repairs and replacement of furniture, fixtures, artwork and food service equipment and more than $11 million would go toward new and repaired elevators and escalators.

The city has said Phoenix’s initial $150 million share would be covered through an existing tax on hotel rooms and rental cars while the Suns would spend $80 million on suite upgrades and fan amenities. The deal also includes Phoenix contributing up to $25 million over 12.5 years and the Suns contributing up to $12.5 million for future renovations. The team would also build a new practice facility estimated to cost between $25 million and $50 million in Phoenix.

Here’s a breakdown of the arena preliminary cost estimates:

  • $14.81 million for Seating Bowl
  • $13.17 million for Event Level
  • $9.80 million for Main Concourse
  • $7.21 million for Lower Suite Level A
  • $4.21 million for Upper Suite Level B
  • $4.88 million for Upper Concourse
  • $5.01 million for Roof and Structural Upgrades-Rigging System
  • $17.63 million for Exterior Wall and Building Envelope
  • $18.65 million for Technology and Security
  • $1.91 million for Signage and Graphics
  • $26.37 million for Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment, Artwork, Food Service
  • $11.67 million for Vertical Circulation (elevators and escalators)
  • $99.58 million for Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Communication Systems
  • $234.90 = Preliminary Total Renovation Cost Estimate

After a public backlash last month, the city council postponed its vote on the renovation deal and directed staff to post financial and historical documents online and arrange five public meetings to gather input.

According to a city council report, approximately 300 people attended the meetings and provided 102 comments, most in favor. The council is scheduled to vote on the proposal on Jan. 23.

Arena Renovation Preliminary Cost Estimates

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As a senior field correspondent, Christina Estes focuses on stories that impact our economy, your wallet and public policy.