Funding part of the $450 million price tag for a new round of Superdome upgrades cleared a hurdle today, when the state bond commission approved financing $210 million worth of it.
That's how much the Louisiana Stadium and Exposition District, commonly called the Superdome Commission, will handle it's share of the money. $150 million will come from the Saints, and $90 million from the state.
Gov. John Bel Edwards says he wants to keep the Saints here for another 30 years. Saints and Pelicans President Dennis Lauscha says they would like to be here even longer than that.
"We have an owner through Mrs. Benson who's dedicated to making sure that the Saints, and the Pelicans, are here forever, long after she's gone," said Lauscha. "Mr. Benson said it prior to his death, and Mrs. Benson also said let's go and continue our great relationship with the state and lock these assets in."
The upgrades, including building out new fan amenities, demolishing the pedestrian ramps to put in escalators, new field-level suites, and standing-room areas, are seen as a way to keep not only keep the Saints in New Orleans long-term, but also make the Superdome an attractive proposition for future Super Bowls, Final Fours, and College Football Playoff and Championship games.
The work should be completed in time for New Orleans to host Super Bowl LVIII in early 2024.