Push on to build MLB stadium in Portland

Article posted by Coliseum, November 6^th, 2024

Image: Portland Diamond Project

Portland City Council is throwing itself behind a plan to bring Major League Baseball (MLB) to Portland and construct a new stadium in the South Waterfront neighborhood at Zidell Yards.

KPTV said councillors unanimously approved a resolution introduced by Mayor Ted Wheeler which supports the Portland Diamond Project and acknowledges the benefits of attracting an MLB team to Portland, Oregon.

Portland Diamond Project recently secured the opportunity to develop the 30.85-acre Zidell Yards, located in the center of South Waterfront.

The group wants to transform the 33-acre former shipyard into a ballpark that meets requirements to host an MLB team.

Mayor Wheeler said, “I am proud to support Portland Diamond Project and leverage the City’s talent and resources in service of making this vision a reality. The positive impact to our region would be tremendous. Now is the time to dream big for Portland, our region and the state of Oregon.”

Image: Portland Diamond Project

Craig Cheek, founder and president of Portland Diamond Project added, “We are thrilled the city council passed this resolution, which shows the city’s support for a Major League Baseball team in Portland.

“This is an important sign of progress. We want to thank the City for backing our vision of building a beautiful new baseball stadium on Portland’s South Waterfront that will be an economic driver for the region.

“We’re committed to ensuring our plans align with the City’s goals to promote sustainability, equity and economic opportunity – and add to the fabric of the greater Portland region in a way that benefits everyone.

“We look forward to working with the new City government to make Portland better with baseball.”

Image: Portland Diamond Project

Jay Zidell president of Zidell Cos., added, “We are encouraged by the Portland City Council’s resolution today confirming their support for Portland Diamond Project’s effort to build a baseball stadium and bring a Major League Baseball team to our city.

“Our family believes a ballpark would be a meaningful redevelopment of the Zidell property and create a vibrant district featuring restaurants, shops, public open space and residential opportunities.”

The stadium news comes after Portland residents learned that professional women’s basketball would soon return to the city. The WNBA awarded an expansion team scheduled to begin playing in 2026.

Commissioner Rene Gonzalez said, “Bringing Major League Baseball to our central city represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to solidify Portland’s commitment not only to economic recovery but also to re-strengthening our social fabric. It’s time for us to swing for the fences.

“There will be substantial yet exciting work for the next Mayor and Council to explore with this project.”

Commissioner Carmen Rubio added, “The Portland Diamond Project has the potential to transform the South Waterfront into a world-class destination. Today’s resolution takes us one step closer toward a huge advancement for our loud and proud sports fans as well as Portland’s economic recovery.”

Image: Portland Diamond Project

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