Arizona Coyotes release new renderings of potential arena in Tempe

TEMPE, AZ (3TV/CBS 5/AP) -- The Arizona Coyotes released new renderings of the proposed arena and entertainment district in Tempe Monday afternoon.

The renderings show a sleek hockey arena design situated near Rio Salado Parkway and Priest Drive. According to the Associated Press, the Coyotes proposed the $1.7 billion development in the Tempe Entertainment District, which includes the arena, restaurants, shops and more. The renderings also show the arena sitting next to Tempe Town Lake.

Fans would be able to walk around, shop, catch the Coyotes match and enjoy refreshments at the “Coyote theater” in the heart of the district. According to the Associated Press, there may also be potential for more hotels and apartments in the area, and the arena would be funded by private investors. However, the club would also seek city sales tax revenues to pay for the $200 million additional costs.

In August, the City of Glendale announced that they would not be renewing the Coyotes lease after 18 years at Gila River Arena. City officials previously said they are focusing on other events that will take place at Gila River Arena and Westgate Sports and Entertainment District, and said the club would need to find a new home for the upcoming season.

In addition to the new renderings released by the team, Coyotes officials announced they would also bring back the coveted white Kachina jerseys. The iconic jerseys will serve as the primary road jerseys for the 2021-22 season, as part of the team’s rebrand. Fans can look forward to the debut of the jerseys on Oct. 14 against the Columbus Blue Jackets and in the home opener on Oct. 18. Die-hard Coyotes fans will remember the white jerseys, which were last worn in the early 2000′s.

“Our rebrand will highlight that the Coyotes are a dynamic, energetic and a forward-looking organization and this campaign with demonstrate our commitment to be a leader in our community,” said Coyotes President and CEO Xavier A. Gutierrez. “The Valley and the entire state are a part of Our Pack.”