LA Kings set out renovation plans for Crypto.com Arena

NHL ice hockey franchise the Los Angeles Kings has revealed details of a renovation project for Crypto.com Arena, which is set to include the installation of a ‘Tunnel Club’ concept at the venue it shares with NBA basketball teams the Lakers and Clippers.

The first stage of what is intended to be a three-year project has been detailed, with improvements that are set to be ready in time for the start of the 2022-23 NHL season in October. Focusing on the fan experience, the Kings have said that, once complete, Crypto.com Arena will “set a new standard for sports and live entertainment”.

“Over the course of three years, everything from the floor to the ceiling at Crypto.com Arena is going to get enhanced,” LA Kings chief operating officer, Kelly Cheeseman, told the LA Kings Insider website.

Phase one will see the introduction of two, large, LED boards at the end of the arena, as well as three new LED rings inside the bowl. The existing Impact Sports Bar and Grill, currently open to the general public, is set to be revamped into a space that will be available exclusively to season-ticket members.

“Ultimately, our members are the lifeblood that drives our entire fanbase,” said Cheeseman. “Giving a few new places for different levels of members to have access to and having one that is their own club is important.

“We can provide some additional value that is exclusive to our members, and a private sports bar, available to season-ticket members, can ultimately drive some value as to why you have a season-ticket membership.”

At ice-level, the Chairman’s Club will also be transformed, as Cheeseman explained: “Chairman’s is the first private club that will get significantly overhauled.

“It’s always been one of those secret kind of clubs for ice-level seat holders. It’s doubled in size and very exclusive where you’re just one of 150-200 people to have access to that building, with all-inclusive food and beverage. It’s a significant enhancement and investment for our on-ice seat holders.”

A promotional video for the project also previews two future additions, including a Tunnel Club granting fans close-up access to the players as they enter and leave the arena. The City View Terrace also promises a unique indoor/outdoor concept for the arena.

Cheeseman added: “It’s been due for us to make enhancements to the arena. We’re going to spend as much on the renovations as we spent on the entire building. The enhancements of the fan experience and the enhancements on team performance are both critical to making Kings fans happy and that’s what our focus is on.”

Image: Crypto.com Arena