The Capital Region Development Authority has officially started its search for new management of the XL Center and Rentschler Field in East Hartford.
The CRDA has issued a request for proposals seeking management companies interested in taking over operations of the two sports and entertainment venues.
CRDA, the organization responsible for attracting new economic opportunities in the region, is expected to have operational responsibilities for both the XL Center and the Stadium at the time the RFP is awarded.
As a result, CRDA will consider proposals for the joint management of the facilities, or individual proposals for each venue.
Currently, AEG Management operates the XL Center and the AHL’s Connecticut Whale, but their contract is set to expire in August.
Meanwhile, Rentschler Field is currently managed by Bushnell Management Services LLC.
CRDA said it expects to make its decision on the future management of both venues by January 2013.
Chuck Steedman, the general manager and senior vice president of AEG Management, said Wednesday that they intend to participate in the upcoming RFP process.
“AEG recognizes the XL Center’s role as an economic driver to the city, and to this end, has invested millions of dollars in the region while working tirelessly towards maximizing world-class sports and entertainment content at the venue,” Steedman said. ” AEG is extremely proud of its accomplishments and is eager to continue building on these successes well into the future.”
