Former XL Center Renamed PeoplesBank Arena

One of Connecticut’s marquee sports and entertainment venue has a new name.

Originally known as the Hartford Civic Center, and then the XL Center, the 16,000-seat downtown Hartford venue is now officially PeoplesBank Arena.

“We see this not only as a branding opportunity but as a chance to participate in something larger—the economic rebirth of Hartford,” said PeoplesBank CEO and chair Tom Senecal.

PeoplesBank made the announcement June 2 alongside Gov. Ned Lamont, the Capital Region Development Authority, and Oak View Group, which runs the arena.

“This arena holds a special place in the hearts of so many fans and families here in Connecticut,” said Oak View Group general manager PeoplesBank Arena Ben Weiss.

“This arena is truly a cornerstone of Connecticut’s sports and entertainment legacy, and it’s about to get even better.”

‘Heart and Center’

The 10-year partnership for the naming rights and sponsorship comes as the arena undergoes a major transformation.

The $145 million renovation includes new lower bowl seating, a refreshed concourse, new bunker suites and loge boxes, and upgraded food and beverage, and new amenities for athletes and performers.

“This is going to be heart and center of what we’re trying to do with the revitalization of Hartford.”

Gov. Ned Lamont

Lamont thanked PeoplesBank and Oak View Group for their commitment to the city and the state.

“This is going to be heart and center of what we’re trying to do with the revitalization of Hartford,” said Gov. Ned Lamont.

Connecticut Commitment

CRDA executive director Michael Freimuth said PeoplesBank was the right private partner for the future success of the arena.

“Adding their name to the civic center is further affirmation of their commitment to the central Connecticut marketplace while helping to refresh one of our premier entertainment venues,” he said.

PeoplesBank has its roots in Western Massachusetts and a rapidly growing presence in Connecticut.

“We chose to invest in this arena, because we believe in Hartford.”

PeoplesBank’s Thomas Senecal

Senecal said the partnership is a “statement” about the bank’s commitment to the state.

“We chose to invest in this arena, because we believe in Hartford,” he added.

“We believe in the revitalization happening here—the momentum building downtown, the renewed energy in the business district, the arts, the restaurants, the culture, and of course the sports.

“PeoplesBank is honored to be part of that future.”