Modernizing Saint Paul's Entertainment Complex

A Once-in-a-Generation Investment in Downtown Saint Paul

RiverCentre, Roy Wilkins Auditorium, and Grand Casino Arena form one of Minnesota's most active civic and entertainment complexes — hosting more than 396 events every year including sports, concerts, conventions, and cultural events, drawing visitors from across the state.

"Grand Casino Arena is one of the largest city-owned assets, and we are responsible for making sure it continues to anchor our downtown and economy. This agreement ensures our facilities remain competitive — attracting top performers, cultural events, and, of course, sports. Above all, I am committed to being a good steward of taxpayer dollars. This deal is the most sustainable path forward to finish this project while honoring that responsibility." — Mayor Kaohly Her

These facilities are city owned. They belong to the public, and they have served our community for decades. The RiverCentre and Grand Casino Arena are over a quarter century old, and Roy Wilkins Auditorium is approaching 100. But like any major public asset, they require investment to remain competitive, safe, and useful for the next generation.

Mayor Kaohly Her and the Minnesota Wild have reached a framework agreement to modernize the complex — with a responsible funding structure that puts private investment and existing local resources to work first and protects Saint Paul taxpayers throughout.

How the Project Is Funded

This proposal was built around a clear principle: the state should be a partner, not the primary funder. Local and private commitments come first.

Minnesota Wild — $162.5 million (private): The Wild will privately finance $162.5 million toward the Entertainment Complex renovations. The team has also agreed to cover any project costs exceeding $600 million, eliminating cost overrun risk for taxpayers.

City of Saint Paul — $162.5 million: The City's share is funded through an extension of the existing half-cent sales tax — not property taxes. 60% of that revenue continues to support the STAR program; 40% goes to financing bonds for the arena.

State of Minnesota — $200 million requested: The City and the Wild are asking the state to contribute $200 million to complete the project:

$125 million toward Grand Casino Arena
$75 million toward Roy Wilkins Auditorium

A separate Phase 2 renovation for Roy Wilkins Auditorium ($75 million) will be funded by the City and a private partner.

No property tax dollars are used for this project.

Why State Partnership Matters

Grand Casino Arena, Roy Wilkins Auditorium, and RiverCentre aren't just Saint Paul assets — they're regional and statewide facilities. Minnesotans from every corner of the state attend events, conventions, and concerts here. The complex competes nationally for major events, touring productions, and sporting events that bring visitors — and their spending — to Minnesota.

Without modernization, these facilities fall behind peer cities. Aging infrastructure limits the types of events the complex can attract, reduces the competitive position of downtown Saint Paul, and ultimately costs the state in lost economic activity.

The Wild's commitment to cover cost overruns while extending their lease and the City's willingness to continue an existing sales tax — without raising property taxes — demonstrate that local partners are stepping up to get the project done. The state is being asked to complete a package, not carry it.

State investment in this project:

Leverages $4 in local and private funding for every $1 in state dollars
Protects a public asset used by Minnesotans statewide
Supports continued revitalization of downtown Saint Paul
Secures the Minnesota Wild's long-term commitment to the arena and the city

About the Complex

Grand Casino Arena

Home of the Minnesota Wild and one of the busiest arenas in the country, Grand Casino Arena hosts NHL hockey, major concerts, family shows, and sporting events. The arena is city-owned and has been the anchor of downtown Saint Paul for more than two decades. The proposed renovation totals $450 million.

RiverCentre

Connected to the arena, RiverCentre is a premier convention and meeting facility serving businesses, associations, and community organizations from across the region. Modernization of the complex includes improvements to RiverCentre connections.

Roy Wilkins Auditorium

Named for Minnesota civil rights leader Roy Wilkins, this historic auditorium hosts concerts, graduations, cultural celebrations, and community events. The $150 million modernization will preserve and expand its legacy while upgrading it for the next generation.