Stadium Central

Recent debates in the state of Washington regarding public funding for part of a proposed $300 million refurbishment of Husky Stadium on the campus of the University of Washington raises questions regarding the role of public support in building stadiums and arenas. Two of Seattle's major sports teams, the Mariners and Seahawks, play in glistening venues that were partially supported by taxes imposed in King County. The NBA's Sonics, however, have struggled to get a similar deal in hopes of building a replacement for aging Key Arena. Politicians have been adamantly opposed to such a support. In the meantime, the University of Washington will seek financial assistance in renovating Husky Stadium, renovations that will improve the structural strength of the facility and enhance the venue for viewing. Legislators have been more willing to assist here. Is it because of the loyalty of alumni making the choices for the government? Is it a nod to constituents who are typically more supportive of the Huskies than they are to the Sonics? Some legislators have argued that support of the college stadium is more of a government functions compared to the construction of an arena that serves a for-profit enterprise such as the Sonics. This argument, obviously, falls apart when considering past support for the Seahawks and Mariners. But the fact that stadiums serve the community beyond their financial benefit to the team has been the basis of decisions to support the refurbishment and construction of sporting venues across the country. The big question now...How does Washington State University feel about tax money going to UW, especially considering that they are in the midst of a $70 million renovation to Martin Stadium, home of the Cougars?! See article on WSU's response.