Lightning Stays in Tampa through 2043 as Hillsborough County approves $250 million renovation

Lightning fans can breathe easy—the team’s not leaving Tampa anytime soon. On Wednesday, Hillsborough County commissioners backed a new lease extension in a 7–0 vote, locking the Tampa Bay Lightning into Benchmark International Arena for at least six more years. That means the Bolts are here through 2043. It’s a big statement about the team’s commitment to Tampa and the county.

Commissioner Ken Hagan didn’t hold back: “Everyone knows what Jeff Vinik’s done for the Lightning, but honestly, his vision changed downtown Tampa for the better.” Hard to argue with that.

The deal means Hillsborough County will put $250 million into renovating Benchmark Arena. The money’s coming from tourism dollars, not the county’s general fund, so locals won’t see a hit to basic services. The Lightning will also chip in at least $75 million toward the upgrades.

Commissioner Christine Miller summed it up: “This is our building. We own it, and we need to take care of it.” Simple as that.

All this is happening while the Lightning are on a tear. They just beat the San Jose Sharks on Tuesday, stretching their point streak to 14 games and sitting at the top of the Eastern Conference. Not a bad week to be a fan.