Bridgeport Arena’s New Operator

An American Hockey League affiliate of the New York Islanders has taken over operations of the Webster Bank Arena At Harbor Yard in Bridgeport, Conn.

The Bridgeport Sound Tigers, which are managed by Harbor Yard Sports & Entertainment, have signed on to operate the 10,000-capacity venue and oversee upcoming improvements.

Centerplate, which previously managed the facility, will continue to provide concessions.

Sound Tigers President Howard Saffan told the Connecticut Post the 10-year-old Webster Bank Arena is scheduled to undergo renovations including the installation of a new lighting system, LED ribbon boards and new, larger video screens.

“It needs some polishing to make it look as beautiful a building as it is,” Saffan said. “It’s an absolutely wonderful arena to watch a show or sporting event.”

Officials reportedly hope to double the number of events at the venue.

Terms of the management agreement were not disclosed.