Facility Notes

In Pittsburgh, Mark Belko reports the city's Historic Review Commission yesterday "rejected a bid to nominate" the 49-year-old Civic Arena "as a city historic structure." In a 6-0 vote, the commission "decided that the arena, despite its retractable roof and unique shape, did not meet any of the 10 criteria needed to be designated as a city historic structure." The decision is a "setback for local preservationists, led by architect Rob Pfaffmann, who are trying to save the arena from the wrecking ball" (PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE, 3/3).

THANKS, BUT NO THANKS: In St. Paul, Charley Walters reports Twins Owner Jim Pohlad, despite contributing $2M toward a new on-campus baseball field at the Univ. of Minnesota, "insists it not have the Pohlad name attached." The $7.5M project, which still needs $3M to begin construction, "will remain Siebert Field" (ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS, 3/3).

ADDING IT ALL UP: Construction costs for the MLS Dynamo's new stadium are expected to total $77M, which will be financed in part by equity from the club's ownership group, a Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone jointly funded by the City of Houston and Harris County, and Texas Southern Univ. The remainder will be covered by a $33M construction loan, 21% of which is financed by Green Bank (Green Bank).