Monday, February 4, 2013
Latest on Red Wings' new roost
By Tom Carpenter
According to the Detroit Free Press' John Gallagher, the Detroit Red Wings continue to discuss a new arena with Detroit city officials. Talks are ongoing, as all parties consider a larger-scale option that would include a $650 million entertainment district.
"The district, while anchored by a new arena, would also include housing, retail and entertainment venues. of a massive $650 million mixed-use district anchored by a new arena but also including housing, retail, and entertainment venues," Gallagher wrote.
"The questions left unanswered and still up for discussion, according to sources, include location, boundaries of any special district, mode of financing and ultimate ownership of the complex."
Of course, while all of those factors will play a role in determining when or if such a project comes to fruition, financing will be the biggest factor. The City of Detroit is in a financial quagmire, but creating an entertainment district that would draw people to the heart of the city would be a long-term investment aimed at bringing back life and money to downtown.
Nothing is imminent at this time; in fact, Gallagher noted that all talks are strictly in an exploratory phase right now.
