The ownership group of Columbus Crew SC has released preliminary renderings of a new stadium in Austin, Texas.
News broke in October that the team’s ownership was looking to move the team after the 2018 season.
In November, Austin city council members approved a resolution “directing the City Manager to identify City-owned sites that could be used by a Major League Soccer team, as well as community benefits that could be generated by such a use”
Statement From Richard Suttle, Armbrust & Brown, For Precourt Sports Ventures, regarding site renderings for 200 S. Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704 – December 7, 2017
“We are hopeful there will be several sites considered by city staff for the stadium and practice facility. While there may be others, our initial thought is 200 South Lamar seems virtually perfect for a modern, urban Major League Soccer (MLS) soccer stadium as long as it is compact and designed with minimum traffic, light and sound impact as a priority.
“In particular, we know traffic is a concern at this site. We’ve looked at other modern, successful, MLS club stadiums around the country, as well as other Austin events, and we know it can be done with little-to-no onsite parking. We envision convenient shuttles, ride sharing and a march-to-the-match, among other options.
“In addition, if the 200 South Lamar site becomes the preferred site, we are fully aware of the importance of taking care of the South Austin Little League and working to improve their situation. We are still doing a tremendous amount of due diligence to make sure that a site that appears ideal proves out.
“Whatever becomes the preferred site, we will start a comprehensive process of involving neighbors and other stakeholders to create a facility the whole community can embrace.
“While legally I believe a city-owned MLS stadium built entirely with private funds and no city money can be located on parkland without an election, if a parkland site becomes the preferred site, we will follow the lead of our elected officials, enthusiastically engaging in the election discussion if that is their desire and if timing can be worked out to bring the MLS team here.”
Statement From Precourt Sports Ventures – December 7, 2017
“Precourt Sports Ventures does not have additional updates regarding Columbus-based solutions to the long-term sustainability concerns of Columbus Crew SC. While PSV was told last month by Columbus officials that the City of Columbus would not be communicating further with PSV, we remain committed to exploring strategic options as we have communicated, which can include meaningful and constructive dialogue with Columbus leaders. In the meantime, MAPFRE Stadium remains the home of Columbus Crew SC as Crew SC continues to prepare for the 2018 season.”
