Photo: Portland Diamond Project
Today, the Portland City Council unanimously approved a resolution to support the Portland Diamond Project’s efforts to bring Major League Baseball to Portland and construct a new stadium in the South Waterfront neighborhood at Zidell Yards.
The resolution, introduced by Mayor Ted Wheeler, acknowledges the social, economic and cultural benefits of attracting a Major League Baseball team to Portland. It also recognizes that a professional baseball team would add to Portland’s strength as a sports town with passionate support for its professional sports team: the Trail Blazers, Timbers, Thorns and the recent award of a Women’s National Basketball Association franchise.
“I am proud to support Portland Diamond Project and leverage the City’s talent and resources in service of making this vision a reality,” said Mayor Ted Wheeler. “The positive impact to our region would be tremendous. Now is the time to dream big for Portland, our region and the state of Oregon.”
Portland Diamond Project recently secured the opportunity to develop the 30.85-acre Zidell Yards, located in the center of South Waterfront. This is one of the last remaining large urban redevelopment opportunities in the Central City. It is located within the North Macadam Tax Increment Finance District.
“We are thrilled the city council passed this resolution, which shows the city’s support for a Major League Baseball team in Portland,” said Craig Cheek, founder and president of Portland Diamond Project. “This is an important sign of progress. We want to thank the City for backing our vision of building a beautiful new baseball stadium on Portland’s South Waterfront that will be an economic driver for the region. We’re committed to ensuring our plans align with the City’s goals to promote sustainability, equity and economic opportunity – and add to the fabric of the greater Portland region in a way that benefits everyone. We look forward to working with the new City government to make Portland better with baseball.”
“We are encouraged by the Portland City Council’s resolution today confirming their support for Portland Diamond Project’s effort to build a baseball stadium and bring a Major League Baseball team to our city,” said Jay Zidell. “Our family believes a ballpark would be a meaningful redevelopment of the Zidell property and create a vibrant district featuring restaurants, shops, public open space and residential opportunities.”
“Bringing Major League Baseball to our central city represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to solidify Portland's commitment not only to economic recovery but also to re-strengthening our social fabric. It’s time for us to swing for the fences,” said Commissioner Rene Gonzalez. “There will be substantial yet exciting work for the next Mayor and Council to explore with this project.”
“Excited about the potential of bringing Major League Baseball to Portland and the development of Zidell Yards,” said Commissioner Mingus Mapps. “With the recent WNBA announcement, and the prospect of MLB in Portland, the City is solidifying its place as West Coast sports powerhouse.”
“The Portland Diamond Project has the potential to transform the South Waterfront into a world-class destination,” said Commissioner Carmen Rubio. “Today’s resolution takes us one step closer toward a huge advancement for our loud and proud sports fans as well as Portland’s economic recovery.”
“My hometown has a rich history with baseball, and it’s time for us to play in the major leagues,” said Commissioner Dan Ryan. “I can’t think of a better postcard view than watching home runs with the beautiful Willamette River and beloved Mt. Hood in the background. Let’s go!”
Source: City of Portland