Gexa Energy Improvements

The city has wanted upgrades for some time but couldn’t come up with the cash. A plan was developed for Live Nation, which operates the venue, to fund the renovation and keep $500,000 in rent money annually until it recoups its investment. Improvements would reportedly include the renovation of entrances, structural and electrical improvements, new seats, a new LED system, new concessions and merchandise stands, new sponsorship signage towers, fencing and a fresh coat of paint.

During a city council meeting, Park and Recreation Department Director Willis Winters told councilors how important the renovations are for the future of the Gexa Energy Pavilion.

“If you were to go out there during the day, you’d see the condition it’s in – and the urgent need for these improvements,” Winters said, according to the Dallas Morning News.

“If we were to build this new today, it’d be hard to even give you a figure for it – but, likely, well over $50 million, if not more.” Under the terms of the agreement, LN would still required to pay the city a minimum of $350,000 annually, and would increase current rental payments from 15 cents per ticket to 20 cents per ticket sold. City documents obtained by the Morning News show LN typically pays the city far more than $350,000 annually, with payments for 2011-12 totaling $701,262 and the next year amounting to $965,897.

The full city council will vote on the measure Nov. 12. If approved, construction would begin in December and wrap by March 2018.