<https://www.urbanplanet.org/forums/topic/44026-more-small-thinking-by-the-courant/#comment->
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"The way I see it, Hartfords Arena could potentially be the best Catalyst for change in the downtown area. \n\n \n\nAEG who partnered with Northland to operate the Rent and the XL center is well known for developing massive sports/entertainment districts. \n\n \n\nI know I am a bit too optomistic some times, but I have known about AEG for over a decade as they have been very involved in MLS.  Since AEG saw fit to get involved in Hartford they clearly see potential here.  These are not dumb people, they see a city with immense wealth and a signifigant population with very limited entertainment options.  Seriously, if you look at our population and include Springfield and such, there really are very few venues for national acts to perform.  The few concerts that come here sell out immediately, and at very high prices.  I spent some stupid amount to see Cirque de soleil in the XL Center last year.  AEG spent 10 years supporting major league soccer, absorbing losses, owning half of the teams in the league never flinching for 10 years.   \n\n \n\nNorthland has shown its interest in Hartford and they continue to presue projects that not only help the city, but change the way the city is perceived. \n\n \n\nI am sure Eddie is calling them, or even said what he did because of a talk with AEG/Northland.  The paper can \"think small\" all it wants.  If the Mayor, the largest land owner(Northland), and one of the leading sports and entertainment presenters in the world(AEG) are interested in building a new arena then I can assure you there will be nothing small about it.  I am also sure that the state would pony up a fair share of the cost. \n\n \n\nI would simply be thrilled if these guys built an entertainment district like AEG does in other cities.  Forget front street, because AEG thinks big.  http://www.aegworldwide.com/home.html  This company has just exploded over the last ten years, and they have been genreally focused around getting venues built for sports teams and making their money back on event hosting in said venue. \n\n \n\nHow much was roland willing to throw at the Whalers 10 years ago? \n"
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