Photos: Hurricanes Release Renderings for $1B Entertainment District Around NHL Arena

The Carolina Hurricanes on Wednesday shared initial renderings of the $1 billion mixed-use development scheduled to be built in the 80 acres of land surrounding the Hurricanes’ arena and NC State football’s Carter-Finley Stadium.

The 15-year development timeline for the new Raleigh Sports & Entertainment District is set to begin in December 2025, according to the team.

The first phase of development will involve installing an “expanded plaza” and “600-foot promenade lined with tailgating suites, balconies and new open space for thousands of fans to gather,” which are featured in the renderings.

The area will feature new food and beverage options in addition to a stage for live performances, the Hurricanes said.

The promenade is designed to sit adjacent to a new music venue with a capacity of 4,300, which will be operated by Live Nation, according to the team.

The tailgate area will also be abutted by two parking garages, which are expected to be ready prior to North Carolina State’s 2027 season opener.

Also included in phase one of the development plan is the development of more than 200,000 square feet of retail and 150,000 square feet of office space in addition to a 150-room hotel and more than 500 apartments, per the Hurricanes.

Before construction begins, the area must be rezoned to allow housing. The developers plan to file for zoning later in September, the team said.

The new sports and entertainment district is part of the Hurricanes’ decision in 2023 to sign a 20-year lease extension with the arena, which will keep the NHL team in Raleigh-Durham through the 2043-44 season.

As part of the agreement behind the extension Gale Force Sports and Entertainment, the Hurricanes’ parent company, agreed to invest in the mixed-use development around the arena.

Gale Force pledged to invest $200 million within a five-year Phase 1 development, $400 million within ten years, and $800 million within twenty years.

Also as part of the agreement, the city of Raleigh and Wake County agreed to contribute public money to renovate the Hurricanes’ arena.

First images of the proposed $300 million renovation, which includes a new lobby and facade in addition to new food and beverage options including a rooftop bar, were released in early August. Developers hope to begin the project following the Hurricanes’ 2024-25 season.

The Hurricanes’ home, which has been called PNC Arena since 2012, could also be set for a name change after the bank’s naming rights expired last month. A recent trailer for EA Sports’ NHL 25 showed the venue displaying the words “Lenovo Center” on the ice, although the change has yet to be confirmed.