In a unanimous decision, the Portland City Council has approved a resolution to support the Portland Diamond Project's efforts to bring a Major League Baseball (MLB) team to the city. This move represents a significant step forward in Portland's aspirations to join the ranks of major league sports cities, with the potential to transform the South Waterfront neighborhood and bolster the region's economic and social fabric.

Unlocking a New Era of Sports and Economic Prosperity for Portland

Embracing the Vision of a Baseball-Centric South Waterfront

The Portland Diamond Project has secured the opportunity to develop the 30.85-acre Zidell Yards, located in the heart of the South Waterfront neighborhood. This strategic location holds immense potential, as the city envisions transforming the area into a vibrant, multi-purpose destination that will serve as the home for a future MLB team. The proposed baseball stadium would not only provide a state-of-the-art venue for the sport, but also catalyze the development of a thriving district featuring restaurants, shops, public open spaces, and residential opportunities.Mayor Ted Wheeler has expressed his unwavering support for the project, recognizing the profound impact it could have on the region. "The positive impact to our region would be tremendous," he stated. "Now is the time to dream big for Portland, our region and the state of Oregon." This sentiment is echoed by the city's leaders, who see the potential for the MLB venture to drive economic recovery and strengthen the social fabric of the community.

Solidifying Portland's Reputation as a Sports Powerhouse

The prospect of bringing Major League Baseball to Portland comes on the heels of the city's recent announcement of securing a WNBA franchise. This dual achievement positions Portland as a rising sports hub on the West Coast, solidifying its reputation as a destination that can attract and support professional sports teams. Commissioner Mingus Mapps expressed his excitement, stating, "With the recent WNBA announcement, and the prospect of MLB in Portland, the City is solidifying its place as West Coast sports powerhouse."The addition of an MLB team would not only cater to the city's passionate sports fans but also serve as a powerful catalyst for economic growth. Commissioner Carmen Rubio emphasized the transformative potential of the Portland Diamond Project, noting, "The Portland Diamond Project has the potential to transform the South Waterfront into a world-class destination." This sentiment is shared by Commissioner Dan Ryan, who envisions a "postcard view" of home runs against the backdrop of the Willamette River and the iconic Mount Hood.

Aligning with the City's Sustainability and Equity Goals

The Portland Diamond Project has committed to ensuring its plans align with the city's goals of promoting sustainability, equity, and economic opportunity. This commitment is crucial, as the city aims to balance the development of a world-class sports venue with its broader vision for the South Waterfront. Craig Cheek, the founder and president of the Portland Diamond Project, has pledged to work closely with the city government to "make Portland better with baseball," emphasizing the project's alignment with the community's needs and aspirations.The Zidell family, who owns the Zidell Yards, has also expressed their support for the project, recognizing the potential for a ballpark to serve as a meaningful redevelopment of the property and create a vibrant district that benefits the entire community. This collaborative approach, with the city, the project developers, and the landowners working in tandem, increases the likelihood of a successful and impactful outcome for the people of Portland.

Seizing a Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity

The city's leaders have recognized the significance of this opportunity, with Commissioner Rene Gonzalez describing it as a "once-in-a-lifetime" chance to solidify Portland's commitment to economic recovery and social cohesion. The prospect of bringing Major League Baseball to the city has generated a sense of excitement and optimism, as the community envisions the transformative impact it could have on the region.As the city government, the Portland Diamond Project, and the Zidell family work together to bring this vision to life, the people of Portland eagerly await the realization of a new era of sports and economic prosperity for their beloved city.