The investor group working to bring a National Women’s Soccer League franchise to the city thanked Columbus officials for their support ahead of a pivotal vote by the Franklin County commissioners.
“Haslam Sports Group, Nationwide and Dr. Christine and Dr. Pete Edwards appreciate the efforts by all the local city officials who worked together on this public-private partnership and its collective commitment to supporting professional women athletes,” the April 21 statement read. “Together, we built a plan that invests in world-class facilities, creates long-term economic and community benefits for the City and enhances our opportunity to bring an NWSL club to Columbus in 2028.”
The statement comes after a contentious vote by the Columbus City Council that dedicated $25 million and the use of McCoy Park for the potential NWSL franchise. Council voted 5-3 with one abstention on the plan that includes a 2% ticket tax for events at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field to finance the city’s investment.
Several council members and residents criticized the need to provide McCoy Park to the team as the city had previously planned to upgrade the park, which sits in one of the city’s most disadvantaged neighborhoods.
The county commissioners on April 21 are scheduled to vote on their plan to provide $25 million toward the expansion bid. The money will be used to help construct a training facility at McCoy Park and to upgrade ScottsMiracle-Gro Field to be able to host a second team. The facility is already home to the Columbus Crew.
“We remain engaged in collaborative discussions with Franklin County on an agreement that best accomplishes the goals of our region, including our shared vision of securing the NWSL’s 18th club,” the statement from the ownership group read. “As part our long-standing relationship with Columbus Recreation and Parks Department, we look forward to working together on these next projects that advance access to parks and programming for children and families of all abilities on the southwest side and across our city.”
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Haslams, NWSL backers thank Columbus City Council as county funding vote looms
Reporting by Columbus Dispatch / The Columbus Dispatch
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