Posted this in November, much to Jordan's chagrin.
"The best location for a new arena is in the location that is proposed. No doubt. The only issue is "should" that space be used and if there is a need for a new arena and yet another entertainment district?
As a hockey fan who wants to see NHL hockey, I would say yes.
As a citizen of region who understands the needs of the cities and the needs for attracting employers that will pay the money needed to afford to live in the core, I would say no. We already have three arenas capable of hosting large events over 15,000 people. Every municipality has jumped on the entertainment district bandwagon and has developed unique and vibrant areas to be exploited. Every municipality has at least one major performing arts center which sit idle more often than not. The last thing we need is another entertainment district that draws flies when the major tenant does not have an event, which is pretty often given the number of properties available for performances.
The land in question should be used for commercial development and more high-end office space which will draw in businesses that will pay a good wage and drive gentrification efforts in both Tempe and south Scottsdale. A new entertainment district will not bring in the businesses that will pay the wages needed to live in the very community where the investment is taking place. This is why these efforts are being viewed with a very skeptical eye, especially those in government. The Glendale and Mesa white elephants (Cubs spring training facilities) have people concerned about the investment, the benefits, and long-term viability of the project."
As soon as this went to a plebiscite this was dead in the water. Too many people could read the materials presented by the Coyotes group and see it was smoke and mirrors and then get behind killing this off. The political temperature of Tempa and surrounding municipalities (Jordan's own included) is all about spending money that generates real money. Sustainability and critical infrastructure are the big issues and another entertainment district doesn't meet those concerns.
|