(Scottsdale) NHL commissioner Gary Bettman believes an upcoming vote on building a new amphitheater could put an end to the years-long move rumors about the Arizona Coyotes.
“As soon as this project gets under way, this team isn’t going anywhere else,” he said Thursday. She will be anchored here forever. »
Bettman traveled to Arizona to voice his support for the Tempe Sports and Entertainment District project, which would include a new amphitheater for the Coyotes.
The Coyotes have three more years to go on their deal with Arizona State University for use of Mullett Arena, and they’ve developed a partnership with the city of Tempe in hopes that the entertainment district project will come to fruition.
That project will go to a referendum next month, but it was stalled when the city of Phoenix and Sky Harbor International Airport demanded in a lawsuit that the entertainment district not include residential projects since they would be located in the flight path of aircraft – which could lead to noise complaints.
The Coyotes and owner Alex Meruelo filed a $2.3 billion countersuit against the City of Phoenix for alleged breach of contract.
“This development will enhance the community,” Bettman said. It will create jobs. It will enhance the already remarkable identity of a city like Tempe. This is what the Coyotes need. Honestly, I still don’t understand why people are worried [about this project]. »
