Quote:
Originally Posted by Sidney Crosby's Hat
I think because people can closely identify with hockey that they feel the need to speak up in these situations. The fact is, governments give handouts and develop infrastructure to help private businesses all the time.
The 23 ave overpass / 19 ave flyover in Edmonton is a great example of that. The flyover was built solely to benefit businesses in South Edmonton Common. Total cost of the project was $260 million.
http://www.edmontonsun.com/news/edmo.../15113981.html
Meanwhile, someone who lives in North Edmonton is paying for this even though they will likely never use it. |
A private arena is not infrastructure that benefits the general public like a roadway does no matter how you spin it. This overpass didn't exist before and will serve a purpose to all the citizens directly or indirectly at some point - less congestion, safer roadways etc.
Essentially using your logic; the glenmore trail/macleod trail interchange in Calgary benefits chinook center so its the same as funding a private arena even though its improving numerous other aspects of the cities transportation and quality of life?
A more valid comparison of the two would be more along the lines of the city deciding an existing overpass is a little out of date, tearing it down and constructing a new mega overpass beside it that looks nicer, has a few more bells and whistles but serves the same purpose.