The initiative to bring the National Hockey League back to Atlanta has successfully passed another significant challenge.
On Wednesday, Forsyth County officials gave their approval to proposals for a substantial over $3 billion development known as The Gathering at South Forsyth. This project is centered around an arena designed to meet NHL standards.
Located north of Atlanta, the development will feature infrastructure extending beyond just the arena. Krause Sports and Entertainment is leading this effort.
Vernon Krause, CEO, commented, “This approval represents a crucial advancement in making this ambitious project a reality. Our team feels even more motivated as we get ready to discuss potential expansion opportunities with NHL commissioner Gary Bettman.”
Krause is spearheading the drive for Atlanta to host an NHL team for a third occasion. Reports indicate he is scheduled to meet with league executives in the near future.
Krause stated, “We are closer than ever before to bringing NHL hockey back to our area, and we are confident we are nearer to achieving that goal.”
Atlanta has previously hosted NHL teams on two separate occasions, both of which concluded with the franchises moving to Canada. The Atlanta Flames relocated to become the Calgary Flames in 1980 after playing for eight seasons. Similarly, the Atlanta Thrashers, established in 1999 when the NHL returned to Georgia, became the Winnipeg Jets in 2011.
Commissioner Bettman remarked in May that Atlanta has changed significantly since the eras of the Flames and Thrashers, noting differences in “the city`s size, its vitality, and the level of interest in sports.”
He added that he does not believe the city`s previous experiences with NHL teams would influence a potential return, provided “all the other necessary components are in place.”
Nevertheless, it is still uncertain if the league is considering adding a 33rd franchise.
During a discussion at the Stanley Cup Final earlier this month, Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly commented, “We`ve had more extensive conversations with some prospective owners than others. However, there is considerable interest, which we find encouraging.”
Alfred John, Chairman of the Forsyth County Commission, acknowledged that the development project is being planned with professional hockey in mind.
He remarked, “The aspiration of having an NHL team in the area is now closer to becoming reality. The Gathering will serve not only as a premier venue for sports and entertainment but also establish our county as a national leader in intelligent, progressive development. We are pleased to endorse this project and the benefits it will bring to our community.”
Covering 100 acres, the project`s stated objective is to become a “world-class entertainment center,” incorporating retail spaces, commercial facilities, residential units, and hospitality options alongside the primary arena.
