Discussions over a proposed Tacoma soccer stadium project continue, as partners negotiate the terms of what could amount to an ambitious facilities plan.
Last summer, details were released on a feasibility study for a proposal that would include a new soccer-specific stadium to house USL Championship’s Tacoma Defiance and the NWSL’s Reign FC. Under the vision outlined at the time, a $60-million venue would be constructed on land surrounding Cheney Stadium–which is currently home to both clubs, along with Minor League Baseball’s Tacoma Rainiers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League)–and be part of a larger $300 million public-private project that includes athletic fields and new development.
There has not been much information on the proposal disclosed publicly since that announcement, but negotiations over the plan continue. That has been confirmed by some officials involved in the discussions, and it appears that progress is being made in those negotiations. More from the Tacoma News Tribune:
Currently, the partners are still negotiating on the financing and business operations of the project, which will use both public and private funding. The stadium is part of a larger $300 million Heidelberg Sports Village project that also includes creation of a mixed-use sports village and more recreational fields.
“We are very close to coming to terms,” said Tim Thompson, who owns a consulting group in Tacoma and is involved in project. “There are still a few issues that we have to tighten down, but we’ve had substantial progress.”
Aaron Artman, Tacoma Rainiers president, told The News Tribune through email there will be “more to talk about” in January.
Mayor Victoria Woodards and Hunter George, spokesman from Metro Parks Tacoma, echoed that negotiations were ongoing.
The Defiance and Reign FC are both returning to Cheney Stadium for their 2020 seasons.
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