MLS Stadium In Philadelphia Still A Go Despite Recent Doubts
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MLS Philly Could Host Games At Alternate
Venue If Stadium Is Not Ready By 2010 Season |
MLS Philadelphia CEO Nick Sakiewicz and Delaware County (PA) officials Friday reiterated that the plan to construct a $115M MLS stadium in Chester is "moving forward," according to Alex Rose of the DELAWARE COUNTY TIMES. Sakiewicz recently said of the stadium, "If the markets tank (in January), then we won't build this thing, we'll be out $15[M] and everyone goes home." However, Sakiewicz Friday said, "The market's fine. We feel that we’re in pretty good shape. Every day’s a new day, but today we feel pretty good about it." Sakiewicz indicated that he received word the county next Monday would be able to "get into the bond market," where it "intends to sell a $30[M] bond representing the county and Chester’s share of the development price tag." Delaware County Council Chair Linda Cartisano: "Our financial advisers tell us that we’re still on track and that the market is doing well. I’m relying on our financial advisers. I feel they’re watching the market closely and they know what’s going on ... and they feel that we’ll get a decent price.” Meanwhile, Sakiewicz said that Keystone Sports & Entertainment, the ownership group of the MLS franchise, also has obtained a $25M loan through Sovereign Bank, but that money is "conditional on the county's ability to sell the bond" (DELAWARE COUNTY TIMES, 1/4). Sakiewicz said that if, "because of delays in financing or construction, the 2010 soccer season begins before the stadium is completed, the team will simply play away games or in a different venue until it's finished" (DELAWARE COUNTY TIMES, 1/6).
DELAY OF NAME: In Pennsylvania, Amy Brisson reports a contest to name the MLS Philadelphia franchise, which was expected to launch this week, “has been pushed back a week or two.” Sakiewicz said of delaying the contest, “We don’t want to compete with the Eagles’ playoff run” (DELAWARE COUNTY TIMES, 1/6).
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