Stadium Central

An interesting article in today's Washington Post discusses the challenges that the Washington Nationals face in making their new stadium a gem. Remarkably, the stadium appears to be on schedule to open in time for the home opener on March 30 and appears to have not exceeded the construction budget. There is, in fact, little doubt that the stadium will be ready to host baseball this season. Challenges remain, however, with transportation to and from the park and in ensuring that the surrounding area presents a pleasant environment for fans. Columnist Thomas Boswell writes about the industrial home of the Florida Rock and Gravel Company that is located right behind the home plate entrance and the sewage treatment plant beyond the right field stands. Boswell writes, "As for the gruesome WASA (sewage) site beyond right field, which could have been addressed long ago, it would be the Most Unsightly Thing Near Any Big League Park if Florida Rock and Gravel hadn't already retired the trophy." Another challenge will be the two unsightly parking garages beyond the outfield seats. Mark Lerner, part of the Nats' ownership group, indicates that they will spruce up those facades with a Washington Hall of Fame display and other baseball focused visuals. The view certainly won't be mistaken for that of AT&T Park in San Francisco, but the experience of the owners with the details involved in real estate development holds promise that the stadium and its surroundings will prove to be a great destination with any fan.