Saint Paul leaders propose $8M renovation for Xcel Energy Center improvements

The Minnesota House Capital Investment Committee convened on March 20, 2025, to discuss significant funding requests aimed at enhancing local sports facilities and infrastructure. The meeting primarily focused on two major projects: improvements to the St. Paul Saints' ballpark and renovations to the Excel Energy Center.

The session began with a presentation from Tom Whaley, representing the St. Paul Saints. He highlighted the successful public-private partnership that has revitalized Lower Town and emphasized the need for further investment to meet updated Major League Baseball (MLB) facility standards. Since 2021, the Saints have invested $4 million into their facility, but Whaley stressed that without an additional $8 million in funding, the team would struggle to maintain adequate facilities for visiting players. He detailed the current deficiencies, including cramped locker rooms and inadequate training spaces, which have led to complaints from visiting teams. Whaley underscored the importance of these upgrades not only for player welfare but also for the overall experience of fans and the community.

Committee members engaged in a lively discussion, with Representative Carroll humorously questioning the desire to improve facilities for visiting teams, suggesting it could provide a competitive disadvantage. Whaley responded that enhancing the visitor experience would ultimately benefit the Saints by creating a more vibrant atmosphere at the ballpark.

The conversation then shifted to the Excel Energy Center, where Mayor Melvin Carter and Craig Leopold, owner of the Minnesota Wild, presented their case for a comprehensive renovation of the arena complex. Mayor Carter emphasized the economic impact of the facility, which attracts over 2 million visitors annually and generates nearly $400 million for the local economy. He argued that modernizing the arena is essential for maintaining competitiveness with other venues and for supporting the revitalization of downtown St. Paul.

Leopold echoed these sentiments, noting that the arena is at the end of its intended lifespan and requires significant upgrades to remain viable. He shared insights from a market feasibility study that indicated the potential for increased economic benefits from the renovations.

The committee also heard from local high school athlete Josie Skugman, who passionately advocated for the importance of the Excel Energy Center in fostering community and supporting youth sports. Her testimony highlighted the emotional connection many have with the venue and the opportunities it provides for young athletes.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members expressed their support for both projects, recognizing the broader implications for community development and economic growth. The discussions underscored a commitment to enhancing local sports facilities while addressing the needs of the community. The next steps will involve further deliberations on funding allocations and project timelines.