The Findlay Sports & Entertainment Group and stadium developer the Cordish Cos. were "given the green light" by the Las Vegas City Council to "continue pursuing a proposed 24,000-seat stadium for a MLS franchise" at Las Vegas' Symphony Park, according to Ray Brewer of the LAS VEGAS SUN. If a proposed MLS expansion franchise "comes to downtown Las Vegas, it must be a success or other professional leagues -- the NBA or NHL -- might think twice about coming to the area." If soccer "thrives, it would open the door for more leagues to follow suit." If "apparel sales, part-time jobs at the stadium, construction jobs and hotel room occupancy spike because of soccer, then a professional sports team tenant for the under-construction arena from MGM Resorts International and AEG near the Strip is more likely." FSE Managing Partner Justin Findlay is "confident he can persuade MLS" to expand in Las Vegas. He also is "willing to put up significant money to make it happen." The project is estimated at $300M -- $200M for the stadium, which "would be owned by the city," and $100M to acquire the team (LAS VEGAS SUN, 5/22).
