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sports1d ago
Council at crossroads: back NWSL deal or keep inclusive park pledge
Abc6onyourside.com and 2 more
- Columbus City Council approved a $25 million funding plan, with Franklin County expected to match, to support a women’s soccer training facility at McCoy Park and related stadium upgrades for the NWSL bid.
- The plan envisions the Haslam Sports Group covering most costs, with public funds allocated to transform McCoy Park into a training site for the NWSL franchise.
- Opponents emphasize safeguarding McCoy Park as public space, arguing the deal could undermine years of community-led park improvements and access for disabled residents.
- Mayor Ginther frames the proposal as a catalyst for economic impact, signaling potential tax revenue, job creation, and national attention for Columbus.
- The funding plan includes a 2% tax on tickets at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field to repay the $25 million to the city, aligning with the approved funding structure.
- Council President Shannon Hardin seeks clarity on how two land-use plans emerged for the same site, highlighting governance and communications concerns.
- The new reference notes a public commitment to ensuring public access to the training facility and a $3 million donation to the new park.
- Neighbors and community groups urge keeping McCoy Park intact, arguing that replacing it with private development would erase years of revitalization effort.
- A working group with residents is required within 15 days if Columbus secures a team, with a 60-day plan submission deadline, tying community input to project implementation.
- The article underscores ongoing community protests and concerns about fast-tracking the deal, with residents emphasizing the potential loss of a key public space.
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