Bobcats, arena manager request $42M to improve NBA's third-newest arena

Time Warner Cable Arena opened in 2005. (Kent Smith/NBAE via Getty Images)

Despite ranking 25th in average NBA attendance while playing in the league's third-newest arena, the Bobcats at least want their venue to keep up with the best.

The Bobcats and the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority have asked the city for $41.9 million in improvements for Time Warner Cable Arena, which opened in 2005. The proposed upgrades, as reported by the Charlotte Observer and made as part of the team's 25-year lease agreement, focus on improving the experience for premium fans.

The CRVA has asked for $7.8 million to cover lighting, carpet and plumbing upgrades, among other basic renovations. The team is seeking $34.1 million in changes, including $5.9 million for suite refurbishing, $3.6 million for restaurant remodeling and more than $10 million for technological improvements. Other smaller-ticket items include moving the ticket office, creating a youth activity area and repairing the floors, according to the Observer.

As with any lease, though, expect this list to get reshaped at the negotiating table.

Time Warner Cable Arena opened five years before Orlando’s Amway Center and seven years ahead of Brooklyn's Barclays Center.

In 2013, the city of Charlotte approved $87.5 million in stadium renovations for the NFL's Panthers. The Bobcats want in on that stadium support.

Tim Newcomb covers stadiums, design and gear for Sports Illustrated. Follow him on Twitter at @tdnewcomb.