Companies pitch multi-million plans to make KeyArena NHL, NBA ready

SEATTLE — Two arena companies have pitched multi-million plans to remake Seattle's KeyArena into a premier entertainment venue that's ready for an NBA or NHL team.

Late Wednesday evening was the deadline for bids to renovate the 55-year-old city-owned facility.

In February, city officials sought proposals to reimagine KeyArena into a facility that attracts more music, entertainment and sports events, including a potential NBA or NHL team. Developers would be responsible for all costs for redevelopment and construction.

Both companies have secured key corporate partnerships that could help them lure a professional hockey team to the Seattle market. Read about them below.

Seattle Partners and 'Seattle Coliseum' 

Seattle Partners — a collaboration between AEG and Hudson Pacific properties — is one of the groups pitching to redesign KeyArena.

Los Angeles-based arena giant AEG teamed up with Hudson Pacific Properties, a real estate development company. They say their arena will be built to attract and accommodate future NBA and NHL teams.

AEG began a campaign on social media under Seattle Coliseum. See their renderings in a slideshow here. 

Hudson Pacific is run by Victor Coleman, who has not hidden his desire to bring an NHL team to Seattle.

Read about Oak View Group:

Los Angeles-based Oak View Group on Wednesday submitted a $564 million plan that calls for the arena to be renovated by October 2020 and ready for the following NBA or NHL seasons.

Oak View Group has signed a contract with Delaware North, a concessionaire company owned by Jeremy Jacobs who is chairman of the NHL's board of governors.

What about Chris Hansen and the SODO arena plan? 

Meanwhile, investor Chris Hansen is still trying to get an arena built on land he owns near Safeco Field and CenturyLink Field, the two current pro sports stadiums in town. He has become the choice of fans who are tired of delays stalling the process as Hansen has faced opposition from some city officials and maritime interests.

>> Related: New arena petition could put Seattle back in position for NBA, NHL teams

A city advisory panel is expected to review KeyArena proposals and make a recommendation to Mayor Ed Murray in June. The city council would then decide whether to renovate KeyArena or go with a separate, new arena pitched for the city's stadium district by Hansen.

About KeyArena

KeyArena, which opened its doors in 1962, was last renovated in 1995.

It was the former home of the SuperSonics before the basketball team bolted for Oklahoma City in 2008.

It is currently home to WNBA's Seattle Storm and hosts dozens of concerts and other events. It had about 570,000 visitors last year.

Cox Media Group