TAMPA — Hillsborough County commissioners have unanimously approved a plan for long-term renovations at Benchmark International Arena.
The county will invest as much as $358.5 million into the project at the venue, formerly known as Amalie Arena.
“Our community wants to keep the Tampa Bay Lightning in Tampa,” said Commissioner Christine Miller, who represents District 4. “They’ve invested heavily in our area, the surrounding area and the people of this community and the continuation of this investment.”
The deal will see the Lightning’s lease extend to 2043. It was originally set to expire in 2037.
According to our newsgathering partner, the Tampa Bay Times, the team is required to spend an additional $75 million on arena renovations to fully unlock the county’s commitment.
If the team leaves Tampa, it would have to pay millions in penalties, the Times reported.
The Tampa Sports Authority, the arena’s landlord, approved the deal earlier this month.