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The Hurricanes Aren’t Leaving PNC Arena After Extension Announcement

By Ben Huffman

RALEIGH, NC - NOVEMBER 18: General view of the exterior of PNC Arena before the game between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Montreal Canadiens on November 18, 2016 in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
RALEIGH, NC - NOVEMBER 18: General view of the exterior of PNC Arena before the game between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Montreal Canadiens on November 18, 2016 in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /
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While every day is a good day to be a fan of the Carolina Hurricanes, today was a really good day for the Caniac Nation. The Hurricanes will be staying at PNC Arena for the foreseeable future.

In a joint statement between the Centennial Authority and Gale Force Sports and Entertainment L.L.C., a 20-year lease extension was announced today, beginning at the conclusion of the upcoming season. This could keep the Hurricanes in Raleigh through the 2043-44 season.

Along with the extended lease, we could see significant changes at PNC Arena and the surrounding area. There are plans for massive renovations to create a sports and entertainment district around the arena with a hotel, office spaces, residences, and a small indoor music venue, among other additions. There are also plans to improve the parking situation at the arena. None of the plans are finalized and have to be voted on by city and county officials to allow the changes to be made.

Per the agreement, the NHL has also committed to bringing another All-Star Game within three years of renovations being completed and another Stadium Series game within five years. The Hurricanes hosted the All-Star festivities back in 2011, while they just held their first Stadium Series game in February.

This feels like a win-win for everyone involved. For the city of Raleigh, this can bring in tons of revenue. NC State will also benefit from the renovation since they share the space with the Hurricanes. Adding state-of-the-art facilities could help them persuade recruits to come to Raleigh. Most importantly, it’s a massive win for the fans. With several other teams around the league getting new arenas, this facelift for PNC Arena could make it a premier place for fans to watch a game.

Improved parking is what I’m most curious to see because that seems to be the chief complaint of every fan that goes to a game at PNC Arena, especially for big events. Parking for the Stadium Series game was a nightmare. In my book, anything to help improve that aspect of the fan experience is good.

I was never too concerned about the Hurricanes going anywhere else, but it is nice to know that the team will be in the same spot for years to come. Their recent success has turned people’s eyes to Raleigh. It’s time to give the city the proper amenities to create a fun and permanent place for fans to watch the team they love.

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