Stadium News and Speculation IX | DCUnitedPetition.com - DC Residents in Ward 1: Event on Oct 18

QPR Kevin H · Oct 17, 2007

Re: Stadium News and Speculation IX | DCUnitedPetition.com - DC Residents in Ward 4: CHECK IN NOW

suppitty said: ↑

Yeah, that was me, but I'm not sure if there is enough room for parking to make it possible since it isn't directly on the metro. The land itself is 47 acres, I believe, which is basically totally undeveloped. It is literally right off of 270 and the beltway, but the closest metro is probably a 20 minute walk (Strathmore Station). It is very near Montgomery Mall, which could potentially provide parking on gamenights. Canyon Ranch, a luxury developer, was supposed to build on this land, and got about as far as you can get without putting shovel to dirt before they pulled out. That means that there may not be too many political obstacles to getting high-density development there.
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That's a 20 minute world class sprint from Grosvenor-Strathmore! Over 2 miles from the Metro. And there are plenty of political obstacles when not building closer to Metro in Montgomery County these days. I think we'll see a stadium on the Mall before we see one in Bethesda

dcchelseafc · Oct 17, 2007

i also dont know carol schwartz stance either, any ideas?

The Cold Sea · Oct 17, 2007

Re: Stadium News and Speculation IX | DCUnitedPetition.com - DC Residents in Ward 4: CHECK IN NOW

Riz said: ↑

Excellent idea. Feel free to suggest changes, but I think this is what we have so far -

Vincent C. Gray - Council Chair:: Pro (per latest WaPo article)
Jack Evans - Chair Pro Tempore/Ward Two:: Pro
Carol Schwartz - At-Large:: Undecided
David Catania - At-Large:: Undecided
Phil Mendelson - At-Large:: Undecided
Kwame R. Brown - At-Large:: Undecided
Jim Graham - Ward One:: Undecided
Mary M. Cheh - Ward Three:: Undecided
Muriel Bowser - Ward Four:: Undecided
Harry Thomas Jr. - Ward Five:: Undecided
Tommy Wells - Ward Six:: Undecided
Yvette Alexander - Ward Seven:: Strong Pro (co-founder of Poplar Point Coalition)
Marion Barry - Ward Eight:: Strong Pro

Once we get this updated (thanks Mighty!) and comprehensive, I'll add it to the sticky in here for future reference.
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Jim Graham is leaning strongly to the pro. I've had several email conversations with him.

rocketeer22 · Oct 17, 2007

In case it was missed, the DC-Chicago telecast informed viewers that DC United had hired The Staubach Company to perform a search for a location. I'm sure they were given a grocery list of items to look for within the region.

I've only peripherally worked with the company before, but it was a good experience for my agency.

Bootsy Collins · Oct 17, 2007

rocketeer22 said: ↑

In case it was missed, the DC-Chicago telecast informed viewers that DC United had hired The Staubach Company to perform a search for a location. I'm sure they were given a grocery list of items to look for within the region.

I've only peripherally worked with the company before, but it was a good experience for my agency.
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We need a wiki on which to compile all this info. I don't think the BS wiki is the best page, since there's arguably advocacy involved. Do other people agree? If so, and if there's sufficient interest (if people think it'll be useful, and will use it), I can set something up with one of the free wiki providers.

QPR Kevin H · Oct 17, 2007

Re: Stadium News and Speculation IX | DCUnitedPetition.com - DC Residents in Ward 4: CHECK IN NOW

Riz said: ↑

We're sharing information (at breakneck speed!), meeting dates, information and strategy. We're mobilizing around petitions, emails and community meetings with the Mayor.

I find this thread to be the complete opposite of depressing. I find it absolutely inspiring, and perhaps this is why I have hope even when others don't.
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Maybe we should take a queue from Southend United supporters in their stadium fight...

http://www.southendunited.premiumtv.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10444~1144208,00.html

SHOW HOW MUCH YOU CARE
Posted on: Mon 15 Oct 2007

'Show how much you care' was the message ahead of tomorrow's Public Inquiry conclusion at the Civic Centre.

The Government's Public Inquiry into United's proposed new stadium application will re-convene on Tuesday for closing speeches at 2.00pm in the Southend's Council Chamber.

The Club are encouraging fans to gather in numbers to march to the Civic Centre and be present for the summing up, as a final show of support.

Supporters will set off from Roots Hall at 1.30pm to arrive at the Council in time for the 2pm kick-off.

Fans are asked to wear their colours and just two hours of your support could make a difference.

Everyone at Southend United Football Club would like to pass on their thanks for the expected support.
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http://www.southendunited.premiumtv.co.uk/page/NewStadiumDetail/0,,10444~1144903,00.html

PUBLIC INQUIRY CLOSES
Posted on: Tue 16 Oct 2007

The Government's Public Inquiry into the Blues new stadium came to a close this afternoon at the Civic Centre, Southend.

Hundreds of Blues supporters turned out in force once more to hear the final summing up before the Inspectorate files his report.

United's QC, Christopher Lockhart-Mummery, reiterated the Club's need for a new 22,000 all-seater facility along with a shopping, hotel and conferencing facilities.
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Sounds kind of familiar!

skippy · Oct 17, 2007

That's a great idea bootsy and we can refer noobs to the issue (and there will be noobs as we cast our net for support more widely) to the wiki.

Mighty! · Oct 17, 2007

Re: Stadium News and Speculation IX | DCUnitedPetition.com - DC Residents in Ward 4: CHECK IN NOW

QPR Kevin H said: ↑

Maybe we should take a queue from Southend United supporters in their stadium fight...

http://www.southendunited.premiumtv.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10444~1144208,00.html

http://www.southendunited.premiumtv.co.uk/page/NewStadiumDetail/0,,10444~1144903,00.html

Sounds kind of familiar!
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This sounds great..

Is there a group interested in attending the public hearing this Saturday?

Ward 7 & Ward 8 residents:

A public hearing will be held on the future of Poplar
Point Saturday, October 20th at the Thurgood Marshall
School.

If you are a resident of either of these two wards,
please consider testifying at the hearing by calling
John Adams at 202-727-6683.
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I have a great banner we can use.

b1968k · Oct 17, 2007

Riz said: ↑

Which is why I am emailing him now.

(b1968k, I may borrow some of your language if that is cool?)
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Of course it is.

If I get any response I'll let you know ...

dcchelseafc · Oct 17, 2007

i alwasy thought we should take this to the news stations and try to get some play out of it.....between the 3 supportes groups and everyone else theres def enough people to make some noise out of this!

RayWhitney · Oct 17, 2007

There are huge issues in Annapolis (courtesy of our Gov) having to do with revenues. There is a special session called to address tax hikes and slots.

I suspect that the comptroller is exploring all other revenue-generating opportunities. There are recent economic models to work from (Ravens Stadium/Camden Yards), so he may have many ducks swimming merrily in a row.

(I hope I managed to walk a delicate line here between editorializing and informing.)

John L said: ↑

OK - I'll ask

Why is the MD State Comptroller starting this discussion? - Why isn't is it the Chairman of the MD Stadium Authority? - Isn't this something he would normally do?

I know that the Comptroller is concerned with Revenues and realizes the benefits of any such development (hopefully in the DC Suburbs and very Metro accessible) - But is there any previous connection between Franchot and MacFarlane?

In MD is the Comptroller an elected position or a politically appointed position? - I'm assuming that whatever, the Comptroller shouldn't be a real dummy - He may be pro-business and pro-development (and even in their pockets) but its still all with the idea that commercial development results in a larger tax base

I'm assuming in MD that the Stadium Authority is an appointed position - Does he have any original thinking, or is he just a toady with a ring in his nose? - Even if the Comptroller says "Go for it", will he just sit around for a while and twiddle his thumbs

What part of MD have these guys come from? - Are they quite willing to go for development in PG County (or possibly Montgomery County), and not Annapolis or Howard or Frederick?
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dsheon · Oct 17, 2007

b1968k said: ↑

Here is the email and letter I sent out this morning to my council member, the at-large council members, Council Chair Gray and Congresswoman Norton:

Enough is enough.

I read with great alarm the Washington Post article this morning concerning the State of Maryland trying to lure DC United and their development proposal to the Washington suburbs.

Please, have someone from the Fenty administration explain to you and me why the District would actively seek to dismiss a proposal to build 8 million square feet of environmentally sensitive retail, restaurants and housing (including 30% affordable housing) surrounding an anchor attraction in a part of the city that has been historically neglected. Mayor Fenty states that he rejected the United proposal so there could be open competition. However, his staff then inexplicably issued an RFEI that is written to exclude the United proposal and limits the amount of development to 4 million square feet. All of this is in the face of support form the political leadership in Ward 8, as well as Ward 7.

News reports also say that the Mayor balked at $200 million in infrastructure investment on the part of the city. This flies in the face of reality that the city will need to provide some infrastructure support to any development at Poplar Point. It is also somewhat inconsistent given the support offered to projects west of the Anacostia – including recent subsidies for the Verizon Center renovations ($50 million) and the convention center hotel ($164 million).

The treatment of United and their proposal is even more puzzling given Mayor Fenty’s support of the New Town at Capital City Market development – which was not open for competition, opposed by many in that neighborhood, and may eventually involve the use of eminent domain.

I also question the judgment of the Fenty administration in rejecting the United proposal for competitive reasons. Given the shadow that the upcoming National Harbor development is already casting over the Washington Convention Center, do we need to hand Prince Georges County and Maryland another opportunity to siphon off business from the District. More directly, by allowing the United proposal to slip through our fingers and end up at a Metro station in PG County Fenty would be creating direct competition for the low-density development he plans for Poplar Point. Mayor Fenty has said that Poplar Point is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Unfortunately, he seems content to choose the lowest impact option.

Finally, let me take the opportunity to remind you that United was asked by the Williams administration to move to Poplar Point. United worked with the city to assist with the transfer of land at Poplar Point and participated in the extensive planning process conducted by the AWC. In addition, United conducted their own outreach to communities in Anacostia – including working with youth and in the schools – and invested in significant design work. United has acted in good faith. Mayor Fenty and the District have not.

I urge you to support the United proposal for Poplar Point – not for the good of United, but for the future of Anacostia and the District as a whole. If Poplar Point is not an option, I urge you to work to ensure that the development at Poplar Point is one that truly benefits the neighborhood – and also to push for the District to find an alternative location for United.

Thank you.
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Would you consider modifying your letter just slightly and submitting it to The Washington Post for an editorial? It's excellent. You've done all of the heavy lifting.

MattMathai · Oct 17, 2007

Hey, who's this guy, and why does he have a customized DC United jersey in his hand?

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Riz · Oct 17, 2007

dsheon said: ↑

Would you consider modifying your letter just slightly and submitting it to The Washington Post for an editorial? It's excellent. You've done all of the heavy lifting.
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I second this.

Mighty! · Oct 17, 2007

Riz said: ↑

I second this.
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thirded

Lowecifer · Oct 17, 2007

Re: Stadium News and Speculation IX | DCUnitedPetition.com - DC Residents in Ward 4: CHECK IN NOW

Hedbal said: ↑

The 53 acre site at the intersection of 270 and Old Georgetown Road in lower MoCo would be almost ideal (the "almost" is because it is a hike to Metro), but I think it eventually will go to an upscale commercial/residential developer who would see a stadium as an annoyance rather than an asset.
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This site is in play already with another developer, although there have been some hiccups in the plan.

Falc · Oct 17, 2007

Re: Stadium News and Speculation IX | DCUnitedPetition.com - DC Residents in Ward 4: CHECK IN NOW

Lowecifer said: ↑

This site is in play already with another developer, although there have been some hiccups in the plan.
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Lowecifer - Do you have any specifics concerning the two possible sites in College Park? I am guessing one is behind the ice rink. If you know, please share.

Lowecifer · Oct 17, 2007

Re: Stadium News and Speculation IX | DCUnitedPetition.com - DC Residents in Ward 4: CHECK IN NOW

No, I have no clue where they might consider putting it, unless the airport is a possibility. I can't imagine it would be though.

Falc · Oct 17, 2007

Re: Stadium News and Speculation IX | DCUnitedPetition.com - DC Residents in Ward 4: CHECK IN NOW

Lowecifer said: ↑

No, I have no clue where they might consider putting it, unless the airport is a possibility. I can't imagine it would be though.
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Thanks. I figure I would give you a try. I don't think the airport is a possibility. It is the oldest continuing airport in the country and might have some historic protection. But that is a guess on my part.

Sundevil9 · Oct 17, 2007

Re: Stadium News and Speculation IX | DCUnitedPetition.com - DC Residents in Ward 4: CHECK IN NOW

Falc said: ↑

Thanks. I figure I would give you a try. I don't think the airport is a possibility. It is the oldest continuing airport in the country and might have some historic protection. But that is a guess on my part.
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Yeah, but it's not like it gets any respect from the FAA or DHS.

Since 9/11 it's operations have been severely limited.

A development could occur in a way that would keep the present historic structures intact.

Falc · Oct 17, 2007

Re: Stadium News and Speculation IX | DCUnitedPetition.com - DC Residents in Ward 4: CHECK IN NOW

Falc said: ↑

Thanks. I figure I would give you a try. I don't think the airport is a possibility. It is the oldest continuing airport in the country and might have some historic protection. But that is a guess on my part.
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Sundevil9 said: ↑

Yeah, but it's not like it gets any respect from the FAA or DHS.

Since 9/11 it's operations have been severely limited.

A development could occur in a way that would keep the present historic structures intact.
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But it would cease being an operating airport. Don't know how important that is in the scheme of things (outside the DC United world that is). Tell you what, the location would be great. Metro stop, Kenilworth Avenue and Route 1 gives you two roads accessible to the Beltway. BW Parkway in nearby and Kenilworth Avenue also gives access via Virginia.

dcchelseafc · Oct 17, 2007

Re: Stadium News and Speculation IX | DCUnitedPetition.com - DC Residents in Ward 4: CHECK IN NOW

as a pilot and someone who used to fly out and keep my plane at that airport heres my thoughts
it will never be touched, its a historic landmark and will forever be preserved.

operations have been reduced to practically nil as now you have to go through a securtity background check, everytime you go fly its even more of a pain in the butt to fly out of then the rest of the airports in the region as its under not just the ADIZ but also the FRZ which means you have to have a special code that changes every 30 days, and call to make flight plans which are alot more stringent than normal and the adiz fp's

i would never like to see it be decommisioned.
im still pissed at stupid chicago mayor for ********ing up meigs!

SMUPlayer · Oct 17, 2007

MattMathai said: ↑

Hey, who's this guy, and why does he have a customized DC United jersey in his hand?

Click to enlarge image.
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It just pisses me off to see this picture. I can't believe that someone would stand in front of 22K people and flat out lie. I guess I am just a gulible, Texas bumpkin, but seriously.

Everytime I think about that moment, and yes I was there, I just get mad. How annoying.

Sundevil9 · Oct 17, 2007

Re: Stadium News and Speculation IX | DCUnitedPetition.com - DC Residents in Ward 4: CHECK IN NOW

dcchelseafc said: ↑

as a pilot and someone who used to fly out and keep my plane at that airport heres my thoughts
it will never be touched, its a historic landmark and will forever be preserved.

operations have been reduced to practically nil as now you have to go through a securtity background check, everytime you go fly its even more of a pain in the butt to fly out of then the rest of the airports in the region as its under not just the ADIZ but also the FRZ which means you have to have a special code that changes every 30 days, and call to make flight plans which are alot more stringent than normal and the adiz fp's

i would never like to see it be decommisioned.
im still pissed at stupid chicago mayor for ********ing up meigs!
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Now you got me thinking about that bastard and his ********ing midnight bulldozer raid. All for a stupid pile of dirt park named after his ********ing whore of a wife.

dsheon · Oct 17, 2007

SMUPlayer said: ↑

Everytime I think about that moment, and yes I was there, I just get mad. How annoying.
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Someone should seriously start a blog about this issue and use the domain www.fentysbigfatlie.blogspot.com or something similar to that

They could post the picture, the quote attributed to him, how he gave the quote about 10 days before the election, then he opened PP up for bids without requiring that a stadium be in the plan.

Links to articles could be there, links to the petition drive, hot buttons for writing Fenty, Council, others; bumper stickers could be designed along with other products on cafe.com or whatever that site is....

Someone with more time on their hands than me right now....