ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- A new $425,000 marquee was unveiled Wednesday outside the Blue Cross Arena at the War Memorial. It's a high resolution video board measuring 12 by 8 feet with three display panels.
It took more than three years to become a reality, but it's something many have been calling for since 1998 when the downtown arena underwent a major expansion and renovation.
City leaders say the marquee adds to the environment and creates a great vibe for downtown.
"Our team had been looking at different variations of what type of marquee we'd like to have there," said Norm Jones, City of Rochester Environmental Services Commissioner. "I had a couple [ideas] on the drawing board, we had to bring it back and redevelop it and finally developed consensus on this. I think it's pretty snazzy."
The new marquee not only advertises upcoming events at the BCA, but other activities taking place throughout the city of Rochester as well.
Money for the marquee came from city's capital budget and funds allocated for the arena. It's currently promoting Rochester's New Year's Eve festivities, but it's primary purpose is to let people know when the Amerks, Knighthawks and Razorsharks are playing.
"Lets more people know what's going on. You know, it's more than just here for hockey or here for whatever," said Greg Gaves, Avon resident. "They got the Bonnies going. When I came in here the Bonnies were on and now we know the Bonnies are going to play here. We didn't know that before."
New York State has pledged $10.5 million for upgrades at the BCA. Those improvements are expected to enhance the fan experience for those attending games. It's also hoped an updated venue will help attract more big name shows that many times bypass Rochester for facilities in Buffalo and Syracuse.
"We want to be able to be competitive," said Mayor Lovely Warren, D-Rochester. "When people have choices and they have other cities that they can go to you want to make sure that Rochester's at the top of the list when it comes down to facilities and what we're offering to our fans and to those people that want to do shows in our community."
Warren says the State Assembly has already submitted documentation to secure those funds. The New York State Senate and Gov. Andrew Cuomo must do the same before work can begin.