FC Cincinnati has announced its intention to unveil the design of a proposed stadium later this month, providing some anticipation about what the club will reveal.
The organization submitted a bid for an MLS expansion entry in January, and discussions have unfolded since about how it could pursue a new stadium. FC Cincinnati continues to be an excellent draw at its current home, the University of Cincinnati’s Nippert Stadium, but could include a plan for a new soccer-specific facility in its expansion case.
Some more details are expected to emerge next week. On June 12, the club will release design plans for its proposed stadium during a private event for season ticket holders at the Woodward Theatre. Architect Dan Meis was tapped to craft a design that should stand out for its innovation, according to FC Cincinnati president Jeff Berding. More from The Cincinnati Enquirer:
Said Berding: “We’re not looking to do bricks. We’re not looking to do precast concrete – that’s what we have down at the riverfront now with the Reds and Bengals’ stadiums. We’re looking for much more modern, much more innovative. We think that having an innovative stadium design will show off our rising city.”
FC Cincinnati continues to search for a site to build the stadium, and that’s not expected to be determined by the June 12 event. The Enquirer last week reported the club is eyeing three prospective sites – Oakley, West End and Newport. To meet MLS’ deadline, Berding said, FC Cincinnati will have a site selected by the end of the year.
Cincinnati is one of 12 candidates in the mix for four expansion spots. Two clubs are expected to join MLS by 2020, with the additional pair entering the league at a later date.
Image courtesy FC Cincinnati.
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