News Release

City of Rochester

News Release

(Wednesday, August 17, 2016) — Mayor Lovely A. Warren announced the City has chosen SMG as part of the Request For Proposal process to select an operator of the Blue Cross Arena at the Community War Memorial.

“I am very pleased to announce our team has made a selection for the operation of this important community asset,” said Mayor Lovely Warren. “Our Downtown arena is an important meeting place, sports and entertainment venue that positively contributes to the jobs base in our city, which is why it is critical it be operated at the highest possible level. I am eager to work with SMG to fully engage the community, the Amerks/Sabres organization and all stakeholders of this facility going forward. I have had a preliminary conversation with the Amerks/Sabres management team and they are as excited as we are to move forward working collaboratively and for the good of our entire community.”

A selection team from the City of Rochester chose SMG after a thorough review of all proposals. A contract outlining specific terms of the agreement will be negotiated and will require City Council approval.

City officials met earlier today to share the preliminary news of the selection with the Amerks/Sabres organization as the largest tenant at the arena. In that meeting, both the City Administration and Amerks/Sabres organization agreed to work with SMG and to further develop greater partnerships in moving the facility forward and seeking improvements going forward and to make an already strong relationship better.

“The Buffalo Sabres are proud to continue the partnership with Mayor Warren and the City of Rochester,” said Russ Brandon, Sabres President. “Working with SMG, we are committed to making the Blue Cross Arena a best-in-class facility that enhances the fan experience for Amerks fans and the citizens of Rochester.”

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For more information, contact Press Officer Jessica Alaimo at 428-7135.