University Gets Key Approval for New Arena
Portland, OR November 10, 2008 10:04 a.m.
E-mail
Discuss
listen
downloadThe University of Oregon has moved a critical step forward in the construction of a new $200-million-dollar basketball arena near the Eugene campus. A hearings officer approved the city’s permit for the arena Friday. Ethan Lindsey reports.
University of Oregon president Dave Frohnmayer was positively effusive about the decision.
Frohnmayer: “The approval and the conditional use permit is a big step – and virtually the final step. You know, I can hardly wait for it to open.”
The arena is supported by Nike founder and U of O alumnus Phil Knight – and would be the most expensive college basketball arena ever built.
Would-be neighbors had filed complaints, citing the cost and scope of the project.
But Eugene planning director Lisa Gardner says this permit approval may have quieted the critics.
Gardner: “It was representatives of the neighborhood association, the University of Oregon, and staff from the city of Eugene working through all kinds of issues. We came together with an agreement that all three parties signed. That’s what’s unique – we agreed ahead of time.”
Unhappy citizens could still appeal – but a challenge comes with a hefty 3-thousand-dollar price tag.
If no appeal is filed, the university could break ground by the end of the year, possibly on track for a 20-10 opening tip-off.
© 2008 OPB
del.icio.us
digg
newsvinePost a Comment
You must be logged in to post.
Related articles
- Boeing Announces 4500 Layoffs
- Freightliner Plans More Layoffs From Portland Facility
- Layoffs Hit Oregon Manufacturing Sector
Related topics
Recent Comments
- Hitheringwaters on Will WiMAX Prevail Where WiFi Failed?
- Andrea on People Fine Tuning Social Networks To Meet Their Needs
- Jeff on Hood River Pear Growers Try Different Ways To Market
