The movement for a new NBA and NHL arena in the city of Seattle is gaining steam, and fast.
On the same day that an estimated 6,000-plus fans filled Pioneer Square's Occidental Park for a "Sonics Rally", the Seattle City and King County Councils announced that on July 19th they will hold a special joint public hearing to discussed the proposed arena.
The Seattle City Council and King County Council announced today that they will co-host a joint public hearing on July 19 regarding the proposal for a new multi-purpose arena in SODO. Members of the public are invited to attend and give in-person testimony to City and County councilmembers. Both Councils accept written public comments at any time.
Who:
Seattle City Council and King County CouncilWhat:
Public hearing on proposed SODO arena legislationWhen:
Thursday, July 19, 5:30 p.m.
Sign-up begins at 5 p.m.Where:
Bertha Knight Landes Room, Seattle City Hall
(600 Fourth Ave, First Floor)
Investor Chris Hansen, and his partners that include Microsoft's Steve Balmer, as well as Pete and Erik Nordstrom, are seeking to bring the NBA and NHL to the city of Seattle by building an arena in the SODO area of town, near Century Link and Safeco Fields. Their plans have been met with some opposition from various places, including those on the city and county councils.
The joint-public hearing is a huge step forward, as it gives the public it's first real opportunity to advocate, or voice their opposition, for the arena to the men and women that they vote into office.
The sonicsarena.com website also has provided numerous ways for supporters of the new arena to contact elected officials.
According to the release from the Seattle.gov website, a vote could occur as early as August 2nd. There are also tentative voting dates scheduled for August 6th and 13th.