Flush This Plan Already
This obsession with building a new stadium for the Jets on the West Side of Manhattan has got to stop. They're even considering slating it for the 2010 Super Bowl, even though the stadium doesn't exist, and there's no guarantee it will ever exist.
Any Jets stadium in New York City belongs in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, adjacent to Shea Stadium and the National Tennis Center. There's ample room for a stadium there, the site is easily accessible by car and train (the subway and the LIRR), and isn't located smack dab in the middle of one of the world's most congested areas. It's got to be cheaper since you don't first have to put a platform over existing rail yards.
When Philadelphia built new stadiums for all three of their pro teams, they put them all in the same place. Ditto when Seattle built separate stadiums for the Seahawks and Mariners. Besides, aren't most Jets fans from Long Island anyway and would have a much easier time traveling to games in Queens than Manhattan.
Have I convinced the world now? Say yes.
Comments
Yes.
I'm pretty sure the city owns the land, as it was the site of the 1939-40 and 1964-65 World's Fairs. Now it's a park with a science museum on it.
I think Bloomberg stands to get a finder's fee from the developer of the Manhattan site, and that's why he's pushing it so hard.
Posted by: Mom | March 17, 2005 12:07 PM
I suppose it is like tilting at windmills, but I am still hoping for the day that the taxpayers tell these ultra-rich businessmen to stuff it, build your own damn place of business. Not only is that the more economically beneficial act for the local economy, it is also the best way to ensure you don't get stuck in a blackmail scheme when the owner offers you a "new better deal (for him)" the next time he thinks the seat warmers in the (for the rich) luxury suites aren't comfortable enough.
Posted by: Justin | March 17, 2005 01:08 PM
They're even considering slating it for the 2010 Super Bowl, even though the stadium doesn't exist, and there's no guarantee it will ever exist.
It's like the presidents Social Security plan. :)
Posted by: Rick DeMent | March 18, 2005 02:56 PM