It may seem like the Connecticut Convention Center and Rentschler Field are relatively new additions to Greater Hartford, but the reality is that both facilities are getting old.
Rentschler Field opened in 2003 and the Convention Center in 2005. And like anything that’s aging, they need work.
The Capital Region Development Authority’s board of directors recently voted to authorize their executive director to apply to the state Bond Commission for $3.5 million to replace cooling towers and install a new elevator at the Convention Center, and for a comprehensive building assessment and HVAC repairs at Rentschler Field.
Of the $3.5 million request, $2 million would be used to replace the cooling towers, also called chillers, on top of the Convention Center. In addition to cooling the Convention Center, the chillers run refrigeration for the Hartford Marriott Downtown next door.
An independent engineering consultant who assessed the 18-year-old chillers said they’re in danger of failing. They have been serviced several times over the years and are leaking water.
CRDA Executive Director Michael Freimuth said the chillers should be replaced during the winter months when there’s less need for air conditioning. The $2 million includes removing and replacing the chillers, located on the Convention Center roof.
“It will require serious crane work,” he said.
If the Bond Commission approves the CRDA’s request, $1 million would be used to install a second elevator in the Convention Center. While original plans included a second elevator shaft, the second elevator was never installed as a cost-saving measure.
But with COVID limiting the number of people who can travel in an elevator, Freimuth said it makes sense to install the second elevator.
The remaining $500,000 would be used to hire a consultant to prepare a major engineering assessment of Rentschler Field and for HVAC repairs there.
“The stadium is approaching 20 years old and its lifecycle demands that we pay attention to it,” Freimuth said. “We’re asking to get ahead of the curve.”
