It was a long day in Portland, but in the end soccer won the day. With a 3-2 vote, city politicians approved the stadium plan that will more than likely send the Timbers to MLS.
It was a bit dodgy for a while – especially when the Portland Trail Blazers threw a curveball into the proceedings by suggesting that the project could pout the basketball team in jeopardy. So much for being a good neighbour – but in the end Portland fans got what they wanted. The stadium plan can go ahead and MLS will make its decision with that understanding.
There are a couple caveats. First off, there is still a $15 million shortfall in the budget that will have to be found. Second, the city can opt out of its agreement in the future. Today’s vote was non-binding.
However those issues are irrelevant to Timbers Army types today. It looks like MLS is coming to Portland.
There was one piece of news today that might give pause, however. St. Louis has finally attracted some beer money to the bid. Whether it’s enough to cover the shortfall is unknown as of yet, but it is possible that St. Louis put itself back into the conversation. Actually, it probably did. For 2013.
But today was about Portland.
Related: Go watch the Timbers fans as they deal with a five hour rollercoaster ride...
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
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2 comments:
Is Anheuser-Busch actually kicking in any money for the team? It seems more like they just want to contribute a stadium that's not suitable for MLS. If they are kicking in any money, combined with Portland approving the stadium this could be a big blow to any expansion team for Canada.
I don't think they are cause last i heard/read that cooper was begging beckham for money.
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