Stadium doubts

After reading Dave Nichols’ commentary to ignore the advisory vote regarding the Albi Stadium site, count me in as one of the “misinformed and misguided.”

I agree with some valid points for relocation (the best being six new Merkel playing fields), but accessibility and parking are important factors. He states “… folks don’t want to fight to get out there, the biggest complaint about Albi,” but what about fighting inadequate parking to attend any event? Parking for high school football is to remain free? I’m sure these will be the only events with free parking.

“Build it and they will come?” “What if they won’t?” can also apply to the downtown site. Minimal conflict assurances with Arena events ring hollow. I thought part of the stadium use would include other income-generating events (concerts, etc.). Schedulers will not pass on added revenue.

Mr. Nichols’ “let them eat cake” tone doesn’t promote his viewpoint. Print and broadcast media receive access and parking considerations to do their jobs at most sporting venues, so he’ll probably never have to experience this. If the advisory vote was used only as a carrot for the middle school bond then the advisory vote shouldn’t have been on the ballot.

Kerry Blair

Spokane