The process for the NHL to return to Atlanta cleared another hurdle.
Forsyth County approved plans on Wednesday for a $3 billion-plus development called The Gathering at South Forsyth that is anchored by an NHL-ready arena.
The development is north of Atlanta and will include infrastructure beyond the arena. It is being spearheaded by Krause Sports and Entertainment.
“This vote marks a catalytic step forward in bringing this visionary project to life,” said CEO Vernon Krause. “Our team is more energized than ever as we prepare to meet with NHL commissioner Gary Bettman to discuss possible expansion.”
Krause is leading the charge to bring the NHL back to Atlanta for a third time and is expected to meet with league leaders in the coming weeks, according to the official NHL to Atlanta X account.
“We’re closer than we’ve ever been to bringing NHL hockey back to our region, and we believe we are closer to realizing that dream,” Krause said.
Atlanta has been home to NHL franchises twice previously, with both instances ending in relocation to Canada. The Atlanta Flames became the Calgary Flames in 1980 after eight seasons, while the Atlanta Thrashers turned into the Winnipeg Jets in 2011 after the NHL returned to Georgia in 1999.
Bettman said in May that Atlanta is “a different place” than it was when the Flames and Thrashers existed, “in terms of how big the city is, how robust it is, the sporting interest.”
“I don’t think the prior two visits have any bearing on whether or not we would go back — if all the other pieces that are referred to were put together,” he said.
However, it remains unclear whether the league is interested in introducing a 33rd team.
“There are some (hopeful owners) we’ve talked to more than others,” deputy commissioner Bill Daly said during his Stanley Cup Final availability earlier this month. “But there’s a lot of interest, which I think we’re gratified with.”
Forsyth County Commission chairman Alfred John acknowledged the development’s eye toward professional hockey.
“The dream of an NHL team in the region is one step closer to being realized,” he said. “The Gathering will not only be a world-class destination for sports and entertainment, but it also positions our county as a national leader in smart, forward-thinking development. We are proud to support this project and all that it will bring to our community.”
At 100 acres, the stated goal for the development is to become a “world-class entertainment hub,” including retail, commercial, residential and hospitality venues in addition to the arena.
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