The Arizona Coyotes are one step closer to calling Tempe, Arizona, their new home. The organization just announced that they are moving forward with their plans to build an arena in Tempe after receiving the green light from the city council.
The Coyotes’ bid to build a new arena on city-owned land has been pushed through with a 5-2 vote during a council meeting earlier this week. The project is also set to include shops, apartments, and restaurants, and is reportedly worth around $1.7 million.
“We want to thank everyone who came out to show their support for this project, this organization, and this vision,” said the Coyotes’ president and CEO Xavier A. Gutierrez in a statement. “We know this is Step 1 and we know that the council made it clear that this begins that process and we’re very excited about it.”
The Coyotes’ plan was publicly supported by NHL commissioner Gary Bettman and endorsed by the league in other ways. This reportedly included promises of holding the NHL Entry Draft and NHL All-Star Game in the arena once it is completed.
The Arizona Coyotes were forced to look for a new home after the city of Glendale decided not to renew their lease of Gila River Arena. The Coyotes, who were tenants of Gila River Arena since 2003, are currently playing their home games at the Arizona State University’s campus in Tempe.
