Tepper has previously offered up the idea of team fan fests in cities on both sides of the state lineGETTY IMAGES
Panthers Owner David Tepper this week "reemphasized that any future projects for his franchise will impact both Carolinas," according to Jourdan Rodrigue of the CHARLOTTE OBSERVER. Tepper, speaking at the NFL owners' meeting in Phoenix, said, "We're a two-state team. I view it as a whole region. I know that different people view it as 'this place' or 'that place.' To me, it's not. It's the development of the whole region." Rodrigue notes South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster and state legislators have "offered incentives in recent weeks as they woo Tepper and the Panthers" to build their HQ and training facility in the state. McMaster said that the construction of the facilities in York County "could have bi-state benefits." Meanwhile, North Carolina officials have "expressed the desire for the Panthers' facilities to stay put." Tepper said that he has met with North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper and "made it clear" that the state "continues to be included in his future development plans." Tepper has also "previously offered up the idea of team 'fan fests' in cities on both sides of the state line." In the meantime, a "temperature-controlled 'bubble' will be available to the team" to practice in, after "site work began last week." Tepper said that he "expects the project to be completed" by the beginning of the '19 season (CHARLOTTE OBSERVER, 3/26).
HELP ME HELP YOU: In Charlotte, Ely Portillo in a front-page piece notes McMaster yesterday "touted the benefits" of moving the Panthers' practice facility and HQ to Rock Hill, S.C. He said that the Panthers could be the "center of a thriving new development." McMaster added that the team also could be the "impetus for developing a new light rail line from Rock Hill to Charlotte, connecting the two states and team facilities." McMaster said that Charlotte-based Atrium Health has "expressed interest in being part of a new development" anchored by the team facilities. Any such development "could also include retail and a convention center." South Carolina legislators are "fast-tracking legislation that would make the Panthers eligible for tax breaks, as well as avoiding paying city taxes and business license fees." That legislation is "set to be debated this week" (CHARLOTTE OBSERVER, 3/26).
