As a resident of Tempe, Arizona, I was intrigued when I heard about the proposed new arena for the Coyotes. However, after learning more about the plans and potential costs, I joined the majority of Tempe voters in saying no to the new arena. Despite the team’s efforts to win fans over, a referendum showed that Tempe voters were not convinced that the arena was the best use of city funds. This decision may impact the future of the coyotes in the city and their search for a new home.
Introduction
The Tempe community has been buzzing about the potential construction of a new arena for the Arizona Coyotes. The proposed arena would replace the aging Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona. However, after much debate and a vote by Tempe residents, the project has been put on hold.
The Coyotes’ Need for a New Arena
The Arizona Coyotes have been playing at the Gila River Arena in Glendale since 2003. The arena was built specifically for the team, but it has become outdated and is in need of major renovations. The team has been pushing for a new arena for several years, and Tempe was one of the potential locations.
A new arena would not only benefit the Coyotes, but it would also benefit the city of Tempe. The arena would bring in revenue from ticket sales and concessions, as well as increase tourism to the area. Additionally, the Coyotes have promised to pay for the majority of the arena’s construction costs, making it a relatively low cost project for the city.
The Opposition to the Proposed Arena
Despite the potential benefits of a new arena, many Tempe residents were opposed to the project. Some residents were concerned about the location of the proposed arena, which would have been near the university. They feared it would cause traffic congestion and noise pollution in the area.
Other residents were worried about the potential costs of the project. Although the Coyotes are willing to pay for most of the construction costs, there are still other expenses associated with an arena. For example, the city would need to pay for infrastructure improvements and maintenance of the arena.
The Results of the Vote
After much debate, the Tempe City Council decided to hold a vote on the proposed arena. The vote took place on November 6th, 2018, and the results were overwhelmingly against the project. More than 60% of voters were opposed to the construction of a new arena.
Many residents were pleased with the outcome of the vote. They felt their voices were heard and that the city was making a wise decision by not moving forward with the project.
The Future of the Coyotes
Now that the proposed arena has been put on hold, the future of the Arizona Coyotes is uncertain. The team’s lease at the Gila River Arena expires in 2022, and it is unclear what will happen after that date. The Coyotes could potentially negotiate a new lease with the Glendale arena, or they could explore other options for a new arena.
Although the vote was a setback for the Coyotes, the team is not giving up on their desire for a new arena. In a statement released after the vote, team owner Andrew Barroway said, “We respect the process and the decision made by Tempe voters. However, our commitment to a long-term arena solution for the Coyotes remains unchanged.”
Conclusion
The debate over a new arena for the Arizona Coyotes has divided the Tempe community. While some saw the potential benefits of the project, others were concerned about the impact it would have on their city. The recent vote against the arena has put the project on hold, leaving the future of the Coyotes uncertain. Regardless of the outcome, it is clear that the Tempe community is invested in the future of their city and the Coyotes.
