March 29, 2006

It’s tough stopping the Bronx Bombers

NEW YORK

Community activists and critics of a proposed $800-million US ball park for the New York Yankees are discovering what teams across the American League already knew: It’s tough to stop the Bronx Bombers. Especially when they’re at home.

Since the new stadium plan was unveiled last June, it has moved across the New York landscape with more velocity than a Randy Johnson fastball.

Land quickly was set aside, and approval was granted to replace the House That Ruth Built with a new 53,000-seat stadium.

But this contest isn’t over yet. A city council subcommittee hopes to convince elected officials that the new ball park is a mistake for a variety of reasons: greed, hubris, lack of community involvement.

The Yankees are hopeful of starting construction during the upcoming baseball season; the city and state are committed to spending $215 million for infrastructure improvement and assistance with bonds — although some groups estimate that figure could climb to $400 million.

Yankee Stadium II would have fewer seats, but more luxury boxes — 60 in all, about three times the existing number.

Residents in the neighbourhood were upset by the notion that the team was catering to its wealthier fans rather than its Bronx constituency.

City officials, including Mayor Michael Bloomberg, argue the stadium is more boon than boondoggle.

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Print | Email | Comment