All of us here at SMG are happy to announce that our management contract with Albany County has been renewed for 10 years. SMG will now manage the Times Union Center through 2020.
Albany County Executive Mike Breslin said, “We are very pleased to enter into a new agreement with SMG, and continue our successful partnership. Under SMG management, the Times Union Center has generated a significant profit for County taxpayers and has become the premier sports and entertainment venue in the Northeast.”
SMG has managed the facility since its opening in 1990, with our contract being renewed for an additional 10 years in 2000, and then again this week. Since 1996, SMG has generated over $22 million dollars in net operating. A major factor contributing to that success is a hard working staff and SMG’s ability to balance a full event calendar.
SMG President and CEO Wes Westley said, “I would like to personally thank County Executive Mike Breslin and the Albany County Authority for the faith shown in SMG’s ability to continue to meet or exceed expectations in facility management and performance of the Times Union Center. SMG’s continued partnership with the City of Albany is a source of great pride for us.”
“SMG is thrilled to be entering a new contract with Albany County. We look forward to having another profitable 10 years, and bringing the best in entertainment to the Capital Region,” states Bob Belber, Times Union Center General Manager.
The arena’s annual calendar includes Siena College Basketball, Albany River Rats Hockey and Albany Firebirds Arena Football. In addition, a variety of family shows, concerts, trade shows and sporting events are held at the arena.
SMG has also secured the MAAC Basketball Championships, ECAC Hockey Championships, NYSPHSAA Wrestling Championships and the NCAA has awarded SMG and the Times Union Center continuous tournaments including Basketball, Hockey and Wrestling. Notable performers in the arena’s Hall of Fame include The Rolling Stones, U2, Bruce Springsteen, Cher, Billy Joel, Elton John and Frank Sinatra.
