Howard Baldwin is now saying that he is trying to move forward with a renovation plan and has unveiled the specifics this morning. It looks like we are headed for a renovation instead of a new building but it does look to be fairly extensive and ambitious based on the renderings that have been released. His plan now includes the specific goal of having the NHL return by 2017.
If he is saying he can have the Whalers back in 5 years he must be having some pretty good conversations with the NHL. UConn is on board with the renovation plan and Aetna is stepping up to the plate to provide some of the funding. All and all, this is looking kinda promising. Another interesting aspect is that Trumbull St. will be shut to traffic at least occasionally and redone in brick to match Pratt St., a nice touch if it happens.
Larry Gottesdiener who owns Hartford 21 and controls the XL Center until 2013 doesn’t seem to be on board but the XL Center reverts to city control in 2013 and the renovation would start once the city regains control and take a year to complete. If Malloy is supportive of this, it could end up being a pretty major thing.
Photo Gallery of Proposed XL Center Renovation
http://blogs.courant.com/rick_green/2011/11/nhl-back-in-hartford-in-five-y.html
http://www.courant.com/sports/hockey/hc-whale-xl-center-1116-20111115,0,3405456.story
HartbeatCT.com 
Clifton
January 10, 2013
Any more advancement on this project? Thinking about moving up to that area, as a small business owner, and someone with urban planning experience, I would like to be involved, what steps need to be taken?