Sports Arenas Are Not Economic Engines

According to experts, a new $225 million arena for the Pittsburgh Penguins would contribute next to nothing to Pittsburgh's economy.

1 minute read

April 2, 2002, 6:00 AM PST

By Abhijeet Chavan @http://twitter.com/legalaidtech

"Relying on sport as an economic development tool doesn't work," said Rob Baade, an economics professor at Lake Forest College, Illinois who specializes in the business of professional sports. "New stadiums and arenas are for the benefit of owners and players, and the fans who want to keep the team in the city." U.S. Senator Rick Santorum, R-PA, has touted the arena project as a means of enlivening two neighborhoods that need a boost. "...we really have an opportunity to do some good urban planning here..." Santorum said.

Thanks to Sheryl Stolzenberg

Read the full story: Arena seen as unlikely benefit

Sunday, March 31, 2002 in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Community / Economic Development Pennsylvania

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