Arena Vote Delayed Again

Dennis Allain Renderings

The Red Wings’ new arena hits another snag. Will it get approvals in time to take advantage of this year’s construction season?

From the Associated Press:

Rezoning property for a new hockey arena and entertainment district just north of downtown remains on hold after the Detroit City Council postponed its vote on the plan.

Councilmembers were expected to vote Tuesday, but needed more time to review the plan’s wording. The vote could come next week.

Olympia Development wants to create residential space out of one vacant hotel in the area and demolish another. The plan also calls for creating more green space.

The 18,000-seat, $450 million hockey arena for the Detroit Red Wings is expected to open in 2017. The project also includes a 45-block entertainment district.

Olympia Development is owned by Red Wings’ owners Mark and Marian Ilitch. The team now plays at the riverfront Joe Louis Arena, which opened in 1979.

Author