The Lions announced they will move to a new domed facility
in downtown Detroit next to a new Tiger Stadium. In a press
conference with the team, City of Detroit and Wayne County
officals, no exact date for a return was given, since the Lions
"will honor" terms of their lease at the Silverdome (Lions). In
a letter from NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue to Detroit Mayor
Dennis Archer and Wayne County Exec Edward McNamara, Tagliabue
said the move "has the enthusiastic support of my office and of
the League" (NFL).
DETAILS: Metro Detroit's leading businesses could be asked
to contribute about $50M towards the $225M project, according to
Jon Pepper of the DETROIT NEWS. The balance would be generated
from "at least" $30M from the Downtown Development Authority,
$50M from a proposed Wayne County rental car and hotel tax and
about $70M from the Lions. While several business interviewed
said the plan was "news to them," Pepper reports Detroit Mayor
Dennis Archer has sent "feelers" to a small number of corporate
leaders and one source involved in negotiations believes that
part of the financing is not a "major concern." Final approval
for the Lions new facility reportedly hinged on Tigers Owner Mike
Ilitch, who was said to be "closely comparing" the package
offered the Lions with a proposal he agreed to earlier this year.
Sources revealed the Lions were willing to play in an open-air
facility, but Archer "insisted" on a domed building that could
accommodate large conventions and special events. Unresolved is
how the Lions will meet obligations for their Silverdome lease,
which expires in 2004. Options include: playing at the facility
through 2004 or paying off the lease or reaching a settlement.
The Lions hired the Detroit-based architecture firm of Smith,
Hinchman & Grylls and K.C.-based firm HOK to develop the stadium
plans (DETROIT NEWS, 8/20).
EYES ON THE PRIZE: Columnist Bob Wojnowski, who emphasizes,
"Now is the time for the Lions to move, if ever," commends the
club for "looking forward, not backward." Wojnowski: "The Lions
are aiming higher, and there's nothing wrong with that" (DETROIT
NEWS, 8/20).
