The plan to bring the National Hockey League (NHL) back to Atlanta is reportedly close to reaching a major milestone.
On Wednesday, Kevin Weekes, a former goaltender and analyst for ESPN, suggested that Forsyth County would soon greenlight the project, including building an arena that could accommodate a Bettman Circuit team.
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Less than two weeks ago, Forsyth Country News learned that local elected officials in the Atlanta suburbs were demanding guarantees that the NHL intended to return to the region before moving forward. The story does not say whether her wish was granted.
The proposed complex is valued at about $2 billion and includes an 18,000-seat arena as well as hotels, restaurants, apartments and shops.
The Bettman circuit left Atlanta in 2011 when the Thrashers became the Winnipeg Jets. It was not the first NHL team to play in the Georgia community. The Flames played in Atlanta from 1972 to 1980 before moving to Calgary.
**Big potential @NHL Expansion update 👀**
Exciting news from Georgia; Forsyth County is close to greenlighting the arena project, a significant step toward a potential professional hockey team. Stay tuned for updates as the excitement around this groundbreaking development continues! #HockeyX— Kevin Weekes (@KevinWeekes) January 31, 2024