Facility Notes

Pipe Sewer Line Posing Problems For PGE Park Construction

In Portland, Anne Saker notes as "time grows short for construction to begin if PGE Park is going to be ready" to host MLS games in '11, "one problem holding up a final agreement" is the Tanner pipe sewer line that runs underneath the stadium. Negotiators are "talking about how to construct the new soccer field without damaging the pipe and, if there is damage, who would pay the tab." Portland Mayor Sam Adams last week said that he "wanted the final papers to be ready for the Jan. 20 City Council meeting." In order to meet that deadline, the papers "must be put on the meeting agenda" by tomorrow (Portland OREGONIAN, 1/14).

VIP TREATMENT: Churchill Downs yesterday said that it "will continue its Infield Club area" during this year's Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks. The club "debuted last year as a way for infield race-goers to pay extra for special accommodations." But "unlike last year, when there were seats for about 20[%] of the ticketholders at any one time, each ticket sold will have a first-come, first-served place to sit." Churchill Downs is also "adding a VIP Lounge to the club area, which will have added amenities" (Louisville COURIER-JOURNAL, 1/14).

SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED: In S.F., John Cote reported Santa Clarans for Economic Progress, a group of civic and community leaders backed by the 49ers, Tuesday submitted a "petition with about 8,000 signatures to put the stadium proposal on the ballot." The group, which needed 4,500 signatures, "finished a week earlier than expected." The plan is for the "measure to go before voters in June" (SFGATE.com, 1/12).

------------------------------- AWARDS NOTIFICATION -------------------------------

Two Days Left to Enter Your Facility in the Sports Business Awards.

Which facility was the most impressive in 2009? Where was the best place to see an event? Let your voice be heard for the Third Annual Sports Business Awards. Submit your entry today for the best Sports Facility. Go to www.sports-business-awards.com. We are accepting entries through Friday, January 15.

------------------------------- AWARDS NOTIFICATION -------------------------------