In the February edition, Bruce Murphy writes a piece "The Puck Stops Here, Why the Bradley Center Needs Replacing. And Why the Bucks Franchise Needs Rescue". It provides interesting insight into the power structure of the Bucks' management and the obstacles faced by anyone/everyone lusting after property anywhere near the Park East corridor.
The article points out that the Bradley Center folks have been buying up as much property as they can close to the Park East site between 4th and 6th. It also states that Frank Gimbel would like to see a new stadium on Wisconsin Ave (south of the Park East). Gimbel (head of the WI Center District) certainly has some pull and has a way of getting things done but he doesn't necessarily have a direct stake in the Bucks. I do wonder what he thinks of this new MLS proposal as opposed to the last one which was poorly put together by comparison. What they all agree on is this: - "A new arena must be as urban and connected as possible. Downtown baseball stadiums and basketball arenas offer a setting that creates excitement independent of the team's record. - "Attractions like a basketball arena or art museum usually work best where there is the most population density - in the heart of the city..."
One thing everyone needs to keep in mind when looking at potential stadium sites downtown is the amount of space required. It would be great to find a property that is about "stadium-sized" and just put one up there. But the reality of building something like this without any public funds is that there needs to be a great deal more space around the stadium for additional development that will help offset the cost of the actual soccer venue. This could include retail, residential, office, hotel etc. Whatever it is, it will require additional space.