The Bills are asking for lease alterations at Rich
Stadium that would cost the state of New York and Erie
County "in the neighborhood" of $50M-60M, "mostly for large
scale improvements," according to Gene Warner of the BUFFALO
NEWS. Erie County Exec Dennis Gorski "continues to insist"
that new lease costs "will not be placed on the backs" of
taxpayers. Details of the Bills' request are "a well-
guarded secret," but the team is "demanding" new luxury
boxes, and sources are "claiming" that the team may want
between 50-60 suites added to the 88 present boxes. The
NEWS' Warner writes that state sources say lawmakers "may be
receptive" to provide "much of that money." Warner: "A new
lease that would tie the Bills to Buffalo for another 10 or
15 years remains a huge priority, both at the county and
state levels." The Bills are also "believed to be seeking"
new or improved concession stands, restrooms or concourse
areas. The team is also "expected to ask" for free rent,
stadium naming rights and the county's 50% share of parking
and concession profits (BUFFALO NEWS, 3/23).
