KEEP UNITED IN D.C.

NEW NEWS!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-23T20:49:00.004-04:00

Wow I know it's been awhile since I last wrote and I'm sure no body cares just as it was before but I thought I should pop my head back in and drop the PG County's economic feasibility study that was released yesterday. Aside from just the fact that there's actually some new and worthy news to talk about it should also be mentioned that IT'S POSITIVE, well at least somewhat. I haven't had more than a few minutes to skim through it yet, but the overall summary sounds as if it's thought that a PG county stadium would be a positive investment for the state. Aside from that there are of course some negatives as in the total estimated attendance number. It seems that they have found that United would loose fans if the club is moved out of the district, and I personally don't disagree.

Sure everyone has they're own reasons for why they'd be less inclined to drive just that bit more around the beltway, but why does it seem to be such a universal value among it's fans that United should remain playing in the district? Why are fans so stubborn on this issue? Maybe it's the same reason Kevin Payne is...

It seems to me that if you move United out of downtown Washington the club will in one way or another die. I don't mean the team will fold, no I think it's safe to assume that if the league survives then United will survive I wouldn't worry about that, but the soul of the club could invariably be lost very much the same way that Redskins lost their magic after moving to Landover. Anyone who would argue the latter of that point obviously never attended a Skins game at RFK. The place rocked, the Skins won, and you could still afford to go to more than one game a year.

Something very similar I fear could happen to United if they leave the district. I mean lets face it, for whatever reason attendance WILL drop. There's nothing to argue against it. Less people will come. Sure die hards and supporters will make the beltway trek, but the fair weathers, the soccer moms from VA, why would they sit an hour on the outer loop to make it out for a Thursday night game? We have to be realistic about this and admit that after the magic wears off this new stadium (however nice it is) it will be the same as Frisco and Commerce City... with a slightly more enthusiastic supporters section. DC could easily be lost in the sea of mediocre soccer stadiums that sadly do exist in this country.

With all of that outlined the club would then have to raise ticket prices as they already would have had to do in compensation for playing in a brand new stadium. This would only exacerbate the problem.

I've been going to games since I was a kid and I've dedicated a great deal of my young life to supporting United, but even I would be hard pressed to renew my season tickets if such a stadium is built. I've thought about it for quite awhile now and I have to admit that it's not a certainty. I have also wondered to myself that if I feel this way then how do many other supporters feel? If I'm starting to hedge my bets than there must be a lot of others that won't continue attending games. It's a scary prospect for a club that has built up what I am proud to say is one of the most genuine and authentic sporting atmospheres in the country.

Let's hope this new study from PG county forces the councils hand and United can get to work on it's real stadium at Poplar Point. All in all though we should be happy that the wheels are finally moving again... even though their in the wrong county.

Here's the PDF:

http://www.mdstad.com/pdf/MSASoccerS...portSept08.pdf

Garber Speaks...

2008-03-25T19:12:00.007-04:00

Garber at this years SuperDraft.

So again, there's no real news here to discuss, but The Washington Post's Soccer Insider writer Steve Goff did offer this bit from United's kickoff luncheon earlier today...

On the prospects of a stadium at Poplar Point, Commish Don Garber said:

"We are making progress. I sat next to a number of city officials [during today's DCU luncheon] who believe in this team, believe in this sport, they believe in Victor MacFarlane and Will Chang. It's frustrating and continually surprising to me that such an authentic team that is so deeply embedded in this community, that has been a great partner in the District is struggling to get a stadium built. And yet we have teams that are being launched around the country that have had a much easier and faster path. I applaud Victor's patience and his willingness to continue to work through the process, but when you think about how great this could be, it's disappointing that we are going to have to wait so far for that true vision of the team to be realized."

"RFK has served this team well and it served the Nationals well for a few years, but it would be inconceivable for baseball to play long term in RFK and it's inconceivable that MLS could play long term in that stadium. So we either resolve it here or we push this ownership group to move out of the District and that's something I say with a heavy heart because this is a community that has really supported this team."

Garber said he has toured the two potential stadium sites in Prince George's County, Maryland.

"They are great sites, they are accessible to public transportation, they've got great access for signage, which is a valuable component to stadium financing, and I am very pleased that the outreach the state and local community has had to move the team there."

How much longer can MLS and DCU wait for this process in the District to play itself out?

"I'd like to get this resolved in a matter of months, but I am not sure it will be."

Asked if he had any news on the Poplar Point project, Victor MacFarlane said:

"No, nothing. I'm boring these days."

As for exploring the alternate sites in Maryland, he added:

"We are continuing our process in other places."

DCU President Kevin Payne said that Poplar Point is the only option inside the city limits. (There had been talk that the city might propose an alternate site.) He also said DCU and the D.C. Sports and Entertainment Commission met this week about a long-term lease to stay at RFK until a new stadium opens and that he expects that to be finalized in the coming weeks.

Quiet...

2008-03-25T01:24:00.002-04:00

Well I haven't posted for quite some time now because every single facet of the Poplar Point debate seems to be dead. Neither the Mayor, Ward 8 Leaders, or D.C. United have said anything remotely newsworthy since David Nakamura's last entry on February 15th. United seems to be totally focused on preparing for the season, and continuing in the late stages of the Concacaf Champions Cup. While Fenty's hands are full trying to back his proposed budget increase, scaling back government jobs, and continuing his dismantling... err I mean, reformation of the D.C. school system. All this while Ward 8 remains what it has been for some time, quiet and unheard.

Here's to hoping we get some news soon. I'm starting to think the Revs might be in a new Park before we are...

2/5/08: Washington City Paper - Access and Allies: The Washington Post's cozy year with the Fenty administration

2008-03-08T00:33:00.002-05:00

Brooks (center) leaked a key scoop to the Post at a top-secret Sunday rendezvous.(Darrow Montgomery)

By Mike DeBonis
Posted: March 5, 2008

Last June, Mayor Adrian M. Fenty made big headlines. On the first day of his takeover of the D.C. Public Schools, he announced he was firing superintendent Clifford Janey and replacing him with the young, virtually unknown Michelle Rhee.

But before he held a press conference, interested observers had a chance to read all about it in a thorough 1,200-word article on page A1 of the Washington Post, as well as in a Post editorial praising Fenty for his bold choice.

That, of course, pissed off activists, legislators, and, yes, reporters—all of whom suspected that the Fenty press machine had handed the story straight to Post city-hall reporter David Nakamura, who has repeatedly come under attack for essentially being the Fenty administration’s pet reporter (Dept. of Media, “Hand-Scooped,” 6/20/2007).

At the time, Fenty’s communications director, Carrie Brooks, wouldn’t play the feud in the pages of this august publication. She declined to lay out whether the scoop came gift-wrapped from on high or whether Nakamura had just out-hustled the competition. “That would be a question for Dave Nakamura,” she says.

Nakamura declined to comment at the time. The Post’s top Metro editor, Robert McCartney, said, “We are nobody’s PR arm.”

OK, fine. Eight months later, LL has the e-mails!

Just after the New Year, LL submitted a records request for all e-mails sent to Washington Post employees from high-level mayoral aides and communications staffers during 2007. Call it the Year of Scooping Effortlessly.

Why dump this stuff now? LL doesn’t have a great answer to that question. A philosophical predisposal toward disseminating public information? There’s that, sure. Maybe it’s a “beat-sweetener” that stands to endear LL with the activists and legislators snubbed by the Fenty operation. Got that, Councilmember Barry? Perhaps it’s to soothe the bruised reporter egos of LL and his reporter colleagues. OK, you can take that last one to the bank.

Anyhow, here’s the goods:

In the weeks before Fenty made his announcement, intense speculation centered around one big name that had been floated during the last search for a school chief, back in 2004: Miami superintendent Rudolph F. Crew. For weeks, Crew was the odds-on favorite to take over DCPS, assuming Fenty intended to quickly dismiss Janey.

Crew, however, was a safe but not unassailable choice—his background had a lot in common with failed DCPS leaders past: Janey, Paul Vance, Arlene Ackerman, Franklin Smith.

As much as a week before the Rhee announcement, Nakamura was inside the mayor’s deliberations on the schools leadership. Like a true beat reporter, he was even protecting his sources from other sharks in the roiling and vast waters of the Washington Post. On June 7, Nakamura sent this note to Brooks: “fyi, bewteen us, …jo-ann armao was about to crush you guys for picking crew. i called off the attack…”

Brooks’ reply: “Thanks!!”

Jo-Ann E. Armao is the Post’s top editorial board expert on education and D.C. issues. So much for that vaunted news-editorial firewall.

Says Nakamura, “If I was trying to correct a factual thing, then I would have expressed information to [Armao] to avoid any inaccuracies.” Armao says there never were plans to editorialize about Crew, and she says she can’t recall any circumstances that would account for that e-mail. As for the firewall, she says, “It was not breached here.…An exchange of information is not problematic.”

McCartney seconds Armao’s analysis and says Nakamura’s message falls within the bounds of proper interdepartmental discourse at the Post: “We can communicate with the editorial page over matters of fact,” he says, stressing that “calling off the attack” didn’t mean that Nakamura was trying to persuade an ed-board member. “He did not do that, and we would never do that.”

The e-mail machinations continued. About an hour after sending word of his politicking at the editorial board, Nakamura e-mailed Brooks again, this time asking for “an acceptable way for us to write a story that rules crew out”—indicating that he already had knowledge from the mayor’s office that Crew was out of the picture.

No story mentioning Crew appeared after that. But it was clear that the mayor’s people had hammered out a sole-source contract with the Post to broadcast news about the schools chancellor. On the afternoon of Sunday, June 10, Brooks wrote Nakamura, “Can you meet at af house instead? Now he’s really running late. 6 PM. Work?”

“sure. i’ll come to his house… 6 p.m.,” he replied.

A Crestwood rendezvous was not meant to be. Brooks wrote back about a half-hour later: “Sorry to do this, but just moved us back to [the John A. Wilson Building]. One of us will meet you at back door as planned.”

What happened after that planned city hall back-door sneak-in is up for debate. But the next day, around noontime, Armao had some pertinent questions for Brooks: “1. her age. 2. where is she from originally 3. do you know how many employees there are in dc schools and 4. is klein still the only person to talk to? And, anything else I should know...... I might call [Deputy Mayor for Education Victor Reinoso] in a bit.” Brooks’ responses to those queries clearly refer to Rhee.

Let’s pause for a second on No. 4. By asking whether Klein is “still the only person to talk to,” Armao hints at the contours of the exclusivity deal driven by the Fenty people vis-à-vis the Post. “Klein,” in this context, is Joel I. Klein, the New York City schools chancellor and a consigliere for the Fenty leadership search. Judging from the news story, it appears that the Fenty press people told the Post they could use only Klein as an outside source on the Rhee selection; Armao confirms that the terms of the Fenty administration’s embargo limited which outside sources the Posties could contact.

And here’s what Klein coughed up to the Post about Rhee: “That’s the choice D.C. needs, given that, year in and year out, they have not gotten results.”

Back to the frenzied e-mail traffic. Just before 7:30 on Monday night, Nakamura sent Brooks a note: “four hours to go…”

Replied Brooks: “Eek.”

Around 11:30, Nakamura sent Brooks another one: “Anything yet???”

“I think they are meeting with gray now,” she wrote. That would mean that the Washington Post was informed of Rhee’s selection approximately 30 hours before D.C. Council Chairman Vincent C. Gray, the man whose panel actually had to confirm her.

The afternoon after the story hit, Nakamura was already working on his “Day 2” story: “so, predictably the backlash has begun about fenty not talking to enough people ahead of time. in fact, many say he didn’t follow the law from the takeover legislation.... what sayeth you?”

Wrote Brooks: “Let me know if you need people to say good things! Ill check out the other.”

“i got plenty of good comments about Rhee—it’s more the fenty process that ticked people off…” came back Nakamura.

Ah yes, “the fenty process”—now there’s a subject Nakamura didn’t need Fenty himself to tell him about.

Some other choice cuts from the Post-Fenty correspondence file:

• For those who worry about the White House Correspondents Dinner and the uncomfortably close relations it engenders between reporters and those they cover, put this in your dossier: On Feb. 2, 2007, Nakamura queried Brooks: “any decision yet on who AF will go with to WH Corres. Dinner? my editor is pressing us… Adrian would go with [McCartney] if he accepts our invite.” Despite the flirtations of other news outlets, including USA Today, Fenty took the Post up on its offer.

• In perhaps Brooks’ most taxing stretch as Fenty’s media czar—the days following the shooting of 14-year-old DeOnté Rawlings by an off-duty cop—the mayoral media strategy aroused the ire of none other than the executive editor himself, Leonard Downie. In a Sept. 19 e-mail, Nakamura wrote to Brooks, “can you please call asap? our top editor is not happy and i want to give you the full story so you can prepare Fenty…” A later message explains Downie’s beef to be related to the early decision to keep the cops’ names under wraps.

• On Jan. 31 of last year, Nakamura e-mailed Brooks with this jokey breaking news: “Fenty is really putting [DCWatch maven Dorothy Brizill] in her place....priceless!” “I had nothing to do with it,” she fired back. “Good grief,” Nakamura quipped, “these regular citizens asking questions has got to stop!” Replied Brooks, “I agree. But he’s a man of the people.”

• Also on the rabble-rouser beat: On May 16, Nakamura wrote a story (“New Fenty Schools Plan Cuts Copied Langauge”) about how the Fenty folks had revised the famously plagiarized education plan, in which he quoted oft-quoted Ward 4 education activist Cherita Whiting. The day the story ran, Nakamura checked in with Brooks to see how the story played in the mayor’s office. Replied Brooks, “Sucky hed, but story was good. And it wouldn’t be an ed story without a quote from Cherita Whiting.”

• On March 7, 2007, the Post broke news that Fenty would name Dennis L. Rubin as his new fire chief. Reporter Allison Klein, who covers public safety, attributed the story to “government sources.” But that doesn’t necessarily mean she’s the one who procured the scoop. Wrote Nakamura in an e-mail to Brooks the day the story appeared, “I kept my name totally off the story today so no one can yell at you!” To that, Brooks wrote, “Ha!”

Brooks explains her strategy on the Rhee announcement etc. thusly: “I think in the first year, especially when you’re laying the groundwork for the rest of your term, you tend to be more careful and more deliberate on your media strategy…you want to be the first to tell your story.”

Asked if she had any regrets, Brooks says, “I’m very upset I made Jonetta Rose Barras so mad on the day of the Rhee announcement,” referring to the fiery WAMU-FM host and Examiner columnist. “I’d have to say that was the most taxing—hearing Jonetta scream at 6 a.m.”

Got a tip for Loose Lips? Send suggestions to lips@washingtoncitypaper.com. Or call (202) 332-2100, x 460, 24 hours a day.

3/7/08: The Washington Post - A Sporting Issue: D.C.'s interests should dictate a decision on a soccer stadium.

2008-03-07T13:44:00.001-05:00

AS CONSTRUCTION of the Washington Nationals' new baseball stadium nears completion, discussion is warming up on whether to use city money to help D.C. United build a soccer stadium in Southeast. No doubt the coincidence in timing will be part of any upcoming debate. Supporters believe soccer fans deserve the same consideration that baseball fans are shown; opponents think the expense of the Nationals stadium is reason to rule out public investment in another stadium. In making a decision, District leaders should focus only on the soccer stadium plan and whether it makes sense for the city.

Talk of subsidizing a soccer stadium at Poplar Point in Ward 8 has been on-again, off-again. D.C. United believed it had an understanding with the administration of then-Mayor Anthony A. Williams, but Mayor Adrian M. Fenty cut off talks as he wisely sought other ideas on developing the prime waterfront property. The stadium is back in the picture as an optional part of a proposed $2.5 billion, mixed-use development. Mr. Fenty, an ardent foe of the $611 million ballpark for the Nationals, has said he wouldn't support any deal in which the city picks up the full tab but is open to a public-private partnership. Mr. Fenty has made clear he won't be out in front in pushing the plan without support from the D.C. Council. Indeed, much of the impetus to make a deal with D.C. United comes from the council, including members from east of the Anacostia River, such as influential council Chairman Vincent C. Gray.

Mr. Fenty has floated the idea of using excess tax money being raised for the Nationals' ballpark to help finance construction. An obvious question is whether the District can afford to take on the additional debt. And is that even fair to District businesses, which were assessed a special tax with the understanding that the money would go to pay off the baseball debt? The costs will have to be carefully analyzed, particularly since there is economic uncertainty. What will be harder to judge are the intangibles. Such as civic pride in retaining a popular and successful sports team. Or the spinoffs that soccer could provide to the boys and girls of the city. And what could perhaps be the most appealing argument for the stadium -- its potential to spark a revitalization of long-neglected communities east of the river. If soccer can help transform Ward 8 and Ward 7 the way basketball helped to change downtown, city dollars would be well spent.

Much of the discussion about these issues has, regrettably, been behind closed doors, as the mayor and council want to avoid the kind of debilitating battle that occurred over baseball. That desire must not rob the public of full and open discussion of the issues. Or of an answer to the question of what best serves the District of Columbia.

MacFarlane Aswers Fisher...

2008-03-06T00:58:00.016-05:00

Victor MacFarlane and Marc Fisher

By. Chris Pittman

So I'm sure most of you have already read and caught up with the news that our fantastic majority owner Victor MacFarlane has un-officially posted a response to Marc Fisher's blog entry from earlier today. Again I will say that I didn't really find Mr. Fisher's posting to negative in any way, but I did have a problem with the responses, and the overall tone of the title. Obviously our owner did too as he weighed in with this response...

Marc, my policy is not to participate in this manner, but so I guess this will have to be an exception.

I enjoyed your posting and I don't view you as a hater of soccer. I thought the posting was fair and balanced reporting.

My only quibble, if it is one, is with the title as it implies something that isn't true - first that there is a "bluff" and second that our search for alternatives outside of the district has anything to do with anything other than needing a stadium inside the beltway on a metro line(we won't build a greensfield stadium). I think we have been very clear that we would prefer to stay in the district and have spent millions trying to make that happen. So the Mayor's statement is accurate - we don't want to leave the district. And your statement is correct as well, we will leave if we have no viable district alternative. That isn't a threat by any stretch, just a statement of the factual situation in which we find ourselves.

Do I believe a D.C. United stadium in Anacostia would make a difference to the development of the overall program and its progress to completion? Yes. As, is my guess, do most, if not all, of the developers involved. Will it eventually happen anyway? Yes. But the pace of development and the net present value will be greater for the city, the developers and the neighborhood, in my view and experience, if a D.C. United stadium is there.

Either way, stadium in the District or outside the District, D.C. United won't abandon the District nor the east of the river communities. We will continue our programs there no matter where our stadium is located.

This portion of my professional career is dedicated to making a difference in urban communities. We won't propose to put our stadium there if we didn't believe that it would make a positive difference from an economic and social perspective. I can understand someone else having a different point of view but it bothers me when my/our motives are questioned.

D.C. United's mission statement is simple: to serve our community and to win championships. We may not be able to accomplish the latter every year, though we try very hard to do so, but I assure you we succeed every year in the former.

I want to thank you and others for continuing to provide a forum for everyone's views to be shared, including mine. My partners and I want to thank everyone who is supportive of D.C. United, and assure you that our commitments to excellence on the field and service off of it, is real and permanent

And finally, I want to thank the Mayor and the City Council for putting in the hard work that is necessary to strike a "fair" deal. It doesn't mean one will happen, but the effort is much appreciated by D.C. United and its owners.

Posted by: Victor MacFarlane | March 5, 2008 06:23 PM

Now we of course have no real proof that this is in fact Victor MacFarlane himself. Nor do we even know if the person that wrote this is even in any way affiliated with United, or MacFarlane's group. But if I was a betting man I'd have to say that this is legitimate, and it's a great sign to all us fans out here that the organization is listening. We all truly do have a say in this, and again I'd like to urge anyone who already hasn't. Please write to you're local council member if you already haven't. People are listening on this issue, it is important, and we can make a difference.

EDIT: I forgot to mention how highly I think of Victor MacFarlane, Will Chang, Kevin Payne, and the rest of United's ownership group. They truly are the definition of class, and if any organization deserves to build a stadium at Poplar Point, it's D.C. United. Vamos United!

"Black People Don't Like Soccer" ...?

2008-03-05T13:30:00.013-05:00

Former Mayor Marion Barry, and current War 8 Rep.

By. Chris Pittman

Alright, so this ones been rattling around in my head for a while now. For some time I've heard these small arguments arise from people. Arguments that start with the "well you know's" and the "I mean don't take this the wrong way's". Up until recently they've seemed to be just small opinions on the matter of a DC United stadium in Ward 8, but today it really struck me while reading through the comments section of Marc Fisher's recent blog posting. I realized that there are more than a few folks out there weighing in on the subject that really find the idea that African Americans don't like soccer to be a relevant and appropriate argument against a stadium in Anacostia.

What century are we living in!?!

Forgive me for ranting here but how can anyone argue against building a stadium in a certain area under the basis that they personally think the majority race living in that area, as a whole dislikes the particular sport that will be played in that stadium? Now I am no fool, I am very much aware that soccer is not a powerhouse urban sport in our country. That's a fair argument, but can I just say that anyone out there that wants to argue the validity of a United park in Ward 8 on the basis that all African American's (and yes, I believe thats whats at the heart of this stance) simply dislike soccer is an ignorant bigot.

I apologize for being harsh but I am just very tired of this line of thought. Open up you're eyes people. This is the 21st century. A person no matter what their race, can follow and support any sport they like. Currently there are more people in Ward 8 in support of a United stadium than there are against it. If United is successful in their bid to build on Poplar Point, let us all rub it in the faces of those who scratched their heads in confusion at the idea of a "white sport" being played in a "black" neighborhood. Soccer is a sport that has always brought people together, and I believe it will do just that in Ward 8.

Remember to write you're local council member in support of a stadium at Poplar Point if you are a district resident.

3/5/08: The Washington Post - Soccer Stadium Update: Calling United's Bluff

2008-03-05T13:21:00.002-05:00

Mayor Adrian Fenty very much wants to keep the D.C. United soccer franchise in the District, but he does not consider a soccer stadium nearly as powerful an engine of economic development as the Washington Nationals' new ballpark on the Southeast waterfront. And the mayor seems unfazed by the mating dance between United's owners and Maryland politicians about moving the team to Prince George's County.

"I don't think they really want to go to Maryland," Fenty tells me.

The mayor says he is committed to examining proposals for a stadium at Poplar Point, across the Anacostia River from Nationals Park. "But it has to be something fair," he says.

Does that mean a very significant team contribution to the building costs? "Yes," the mayor says.

Fenty, who was an early and vocal opponent of the city paying to build the Nationals' stadium, is now a big booster of Nationals Park and the residential, retail and entertainment district that is expected to develop around it. He sees two important differences between the baseball and soccer situations: Baseball more easily lends itself to ancillary development because its season has 81 home games, whereas the soccer team plays only 16 games at RFK Stadium.

And Fenty is not persuaded that the Poplar Point development needs a stadium to succeed: "We have three excellent plans to develop Poplar Point by nationally recognized developers who are ready and willing to make a great development without a soccer stadium," the mayor says.

Still, he adds, he feels "a huge impetus to do something to keep the team here. They are clearly a valuable private enterprise contributor to the city."

Politically, Fenty is in a bind. Some of his supporters fondly remember his opposition to the baseball stadium, while others have happily embraced his late conversion to the cause of the Nats' park.

If he were to take a strong position against the soccer stadium, Fenty would run the risk of being blamed for the loss of United to Maryland. And he would be in for a blast of icy wind from Council member Marion Barry, whose Ward 8 includes the Poplar Point site and who has come out strongly for the stadium development.

But if the mayor made a strong pitch for the soccer stadium, he would incur the wrath of some of his most devoted and important supporters, the environmental community, which has lined up strongly against the stadium and in support of keeping as much of Poplar Point as possible as unspoiled parkland.

So Fenty is holding back, waiting to see how engaged the D.C. council and other factions in the city become on the issue.

Most likely scenario: Delay. The worsening economic situation makes it ever harder to justify pumping big money into a stadium that would not significantly expand the tax base. Since Maryland's not likely to be eager to put up big bucks right now either, the wait and see move is probably Fenty's friend. But this is one that can't be put off indefinitely: The city will want to do something big with the RFK Stadium site in the next few years, and that would leave United homeless.

Fenty assures me that he has no intention of using the possible demolition of RFK as a threat against D.C. United. That, he says, is not how he wants the District to do business.

Is there a deus ex machina in this play? Some on the mayor's staff still say it's possible to find United another site in the city. The District is not exactly chockablock with wide open spaces available for sports facilities. The thin roster of possibilities when Major League Baseball was scouting for locations proved that out. But a soccer stadium's footprint could be smaller. Ideas, anyone?

2/28/07: The Baltimore Sun - $70,000 Study Set On D.C. United Move

2008-02-28T12:14:00.004-05:00

By Childs Walker |Sun ReporterThe Maryland Stadium Authority ordered a $70,000 study yesterday to determine whether Prince George's County would be a suitable home for the D.C. United soccer club.

The study by Crossroads Consulting will examine the county's potential as a soccer market and the potential tax and economic development benefits of attracting the Major League Soccer team.
It will not focus on specific stadium sites. Those would have to be vetted later, though the club has shown interest over the years in several locations near College Park.

It's unclear who would pay for a soccer stadium in Prince George's. "Our commitment here is just to do the study," stadium authority chairman Frederick W. Puddester said.

The report is expected to be complete by July. United has agreed to reimburse the authority for its effort if the club ends up staying in Washington.

United spokesman Doug Hicks said the club is pleased the study will go forward.

United's status in the District of Columbia is murky. Club officials reached out to Maryland leaders about a possible move last fall after funding plans for a new stadium in the city seemed to fall through. But Washington Mayor Adrian M. Fenty recently refloated the idea of paying $190 million for a stadium as part of a redevelopment project in Southeast Washington.

Fenty previously criticized the use of public money for a new $611 million baseball stadium. Like the Washington Nationals before them, United wants out of RFK Stadium.

Given the uncertainty, United officials remain interested in assessing their options in the Washington suburbs.

Puddester said club executives told him they were caught off guard when Fenty reinitiated talk of funding for a Washington stadium.

Prince George's County Executive Jack B. Johnson and state Comptroller Peter Franchot have expressed interest in luring the soccer club.

In other business yesterday, the stadium authority heard that construction on the new video and scoreboards at Camden Yards is on schedule. The last pieces of the video screen were expected to go in yesterday, with work on the right-field scoreboard and the main scoreboard set to wrap up next week or the week after.

2/27/08: Washington City Paper - To Build or Not To Build... Who wants a soccer stadium in Ward 8?

2008-02-27T22:40:00.006-05:00

An aerial view of the proposed development in Poplar Point
(Courtesy Clark Realty)

The development of Poplar Point would fundamentally change the character of Ward 8, long known as the most economically disadvantaged and restaurant/retail-deprived area of the city. For years, residents have pondered what should become of this 110-acre parcel of land on the banks of the Anacostia River. Now, the city is considering a major development plan created by Clark Realty, which would include two distinct shopping areas, mixed housing, 70 acres of public parkland and a space option for D.C. United’s next soccer stadium, which would require public funding. While the possibility of a sports arena enthralls some, it repels others. This week, we talk to members of communities and hear their takes on the issue:

PRO:

There’s no adjective that I can think of that really describes how intensely I am for it. Having the stadium here in Ward 8 will make this ward a destination point for people in the metropolitan area. In my mind, there are practically no stores that they could put on that point that people could not access is their own communities. So, just putting in retail will not make Poplar Point a destination point, neither will it make it a destination point by just having mixed-income housing. Although the waterfront is there and there will be green space and we would want visitors, why would people think that someone living in Fairfax is going to necessarily come over to enjoy the green space at Poplar point, when there’s plenty of green space in that county? But, soccer will draw people because if you’re soccer fan, you’ll have to come over to where the action is.
-Philip Pannell, Executive Director of Anacostia Coordinating Council

I support the complete development package, which is very important to the new Ward 8. We would get some amenities that we’ve been missing for over 30 years…I work in the District, but I can’t spend my money in the District. All you have is Macy’s downtown! Where can I spend my money? I don’t necessarily want to see department stores. You can have boutiques and other stores. The majority of the local people are [in support of the stadium development plan]. I’ll doubt if you’ll find one that’s not. The soccer crowds will be good for the city, just like the baseball stadium. When you have these different sport activities, people enjoy that. That’s their relaxation, and that’s what they need.
-Mary Cuthbert, Ward 8 ANC commissioner

These days, nobody’s coming to Ward 8 unless you live here. Your cousin might visit you. Once we get the soccer thing and the retail, we’ll have things to give a person a reason to come over to Ward 8. Right now, we got nothing, nothing, nothing…You look at a tourist map downtown, we’re not on it. But then, they’ll expand that map. [Laughs.] We need people to come in and spend money. It’s nice to have visitors; we don’t want them to move here. But, they can visit. Then, we can feel like we’re part of the District. Right now, we’re the only ones here—we can see each other everyday. This would bring a different type of visitor…They pay taxes; the stadium people will be paying taxes; the vendors will pay for their licenses. It will bring in revenue, so Ward 8 can pay its fair share, because right now, we don’t have much to pay in taxes.
-Sandra Seegars, candidate for Ward 8 Councilmember

CON:

I’m always in favor of development and improvement. If you start addressing the quality of life issues first, then I can support a soccer stadium if they were to do that. But, I don’t support anything with this cost. I mean look at the stadium across the river. I’m not in favor of throwing the money in the black hole again. Take care of what needs to be taken care of now, and that’s the people that are here now, not the people, who when you do your projection at the office of planning, and see the type of income that it’s going to sustain the community, blah-bidee-blah, 10, 15 years later. You know, we’re talking now: I would like to see more than one hospital and nursing homes. The two nursing homes that I know over here are horrible. Let’s fix them. Let’s staff them. We’re talking about mental health clinics, recreation centers, low income housing.
-David Brown, resident for 30 years

I’ve been to meetings. I’ve heard people’s pros and cons, and I’ve pretty much been against it from the beginning. And now that I’ve heard it’s going to be built partially with public funds, I’m even more against it. I’m a real outdoorsey type person. Once you lay concrete, it’s hard to take it up, and have a natural setting again, and even though they’re proposing it’s going to have a low impact design, it’s still going to be a major impact on the environment. It’s going to be an impact on the river—and we all know what condition that that’s in. Poplar Point is such a small area, for one. And I know people think visitors are going to be using the Metro, but the stadium’s still going to bring so much traffic. Plus, with everything else they’re going to build on Poplar Point—the area’s not that big.
-Crystal Banks, lifelong Southeast resident

2/23/07: The Washington Post - Funding Plan for Soccer Stadium Denounced

2008-02-22T14:37:00.002-05:00

Some District residents are skeptical of public funding.(By Alexandra Garcia -- Washingtonpost.com)

By David Nakamura

Washington Post Staff Writer
Friday, February 23, 2008

Ninety D.C. residents and 17 organizations co-signed a letter to Mayor Adrian M. Fenty (D) and D.C. Council Chairman Vincent C. Gray (D) denouncing a proposal to use public tax money to fund construction of a soccer stadium in Southeast.

In a private meeting with the council last week, Fenty had laid out the possibility of using excess tax revenue that was being collected to service debt on the Nationals ballpark to borrow $150 million in construction bonds for a 27,000-seat stadium for D.C. United. The coalition said in the letter that city leaders should either pay off the baseball stadium debt faster or use the excess taxes for other city services.

"Every penny of public subsidy going into a soccer stadium is a penny that could be used to improve services that DC residents really care about -- health care, education, a clean environment, good libraries, decent housing, and healthy recreation spaces," the letter said.

2/16/08: Washington City Paper - MacFarlane Speaks—”Hopeful” of Council Approval

2008-02-16T12:59:00.006-05:00

MacFarland (left) Davis (right).

By Mike DeBonis on Feb. 15, 2008, at 6:00 pm

LL wasn’t the only tall, handsome, impeccably dressed gentleman roaming the Wilson Building halls this afternoon.

D.C. United owner and real-estate mogul Victor MacFarlane was making the rounds of D.C. Council offices late today, trying to gauge and drum up support for public funding for a Ward 8 soccer stadium.

LL caught up with MacFarlane on his way out of the building about 20 minutes ago and asked him what his message was to councilmembers today. MacFarlane declined to talk specifics, but spoke in broad terms: “I think we’re focusing on the main principles….We’re going to provide substantial equity that doesn’t require any new taxes.”

Yesterday, a Washington Post article revealed that Mayor Adrian M. Fenty was in talks with MacFarlane about public funding for a stadium at Poplar Point.

MacFarlane has lobbied for a soccer stadium on Poplar Point since the days of Mayor Anthony A. Williams, but the talks came as a surprise, because MacFarlane’s company had declined to submit a bid to serve as master developer of the Poplar Point project after Fenty decided to open the land to other developers.

MacFarlane did say that he’s “very satisfied” with the announcement yesterday of Clark Realty as the master developer and that he and Clark had already begun talks about the stadium.

Asked if he was confident of council approval for any public-private partnership on the stadium, MacFarlane said: “I’m hopeful.”

2/16/08: The Washington Times - United's Stadium Could Help Nationals

2008-02-16T12:52:00.005-05:00

Mary F. Calvert / The Washington Times D.C. Council Chairman Vincent Gray: "We could actually have parking for D.C. United used for the Nationals as well."

By Tim Lemke
February 16, 2008

D.C. Council Chairman Vincent Gray yesterday said a new soccer stadium at Poplar Point would help alleviate parking problems across the Anacostia River at the Nationals new ballpark.

"We have a horrific parking problem with the Nationals stadium," Gray said. "I'm not sure people know how close Poplar Point is. If we coordinate schedules, we could actually have parking for D.C. United used for the Nationals as well."

During an interview with reporters and editors of The Washington Times, Gray said there is now strong council support for helping D.C. United find a new home at Poplar Point, and that he has not ruled out using some public funds to construct the new facility.

"I think there are a lot of council members who are excited about how we can do this, and we'd like to reach some sort of conclusion sooner rather than later," he said. "I'm interested in trying to see what we can do to keep D.C. United here. The feasibility side of that I think really will still have to be determined, and that is what is the deal, what is the plan, and what will be required of the District."

Mayor Adrian Fenty on Thursday announced that Clark Realty will head up a massive redevelopment of the 110-acre Poplar Point site and said he is in favor of placing a stadium there.

Neither Fenty nor Gray, however, said they will support financing the stadium entirely with city money, as was done with the Nationals ballpark.

"I don't think there's likely to be any support for a deal in which we'd pay for the entire stadium," Gray said.

Poplar Point is located east of the Anacostia River, within sight of the Nationals ballpark in Southeast. Conceivably, Gray said, fans heading to Nationals game could walk from Poplar Point across a pedestrian walkway on one of the bridges crossing the Anacostia. The Nationals have identified only about 5,000 parking spaces in the ballpark neighborhood, forcing them to use shuttles bus fans from lots at the RFK site.

Gray also said fans parking in Poplar Point would boost economic development efforts east of the Anacostia.

"With Poplar Point becoming a mixed-use site, imagine 81 days with bringing five, 10 or 15,000 back to the other side of the river after games or even before games," he said.

Gray downplayed recent suggestions that the city would try to lure the Redskins back to a new stadium in the District. Early proposals have called for the city to tear down RFK and allow the Redskins to build a new stadium on the site. The city would provide the team with the land for free.

"To the extent there have been discussions with the council, I'm not aware of that at all," Gray said. "RFK has been around for 48 years, and there's absolutely no economic development that's taken place. If economic development is supposed to be the objective of this, how should I believe things will be different after 48 years?"

Meanwhile, Gray said he is hopeful that a new Major League Baseball academy will be under construction within the next year at Fort DuPont.

Gray, who campaigned for the academy when a council member representing Ward 7, said he has had several meetings with Dirk Kempthorne, the U.S. Secretary of the Interior, about getting access to the necessary land through either a transfer or long-term ground lease from the federal government. Construction could begin after an environmental study, which will take six to nine months.

Gray also said the Tiger Woods Foundation has had early talks about building a new learning center in Ward 7.

2/15/08: The Washington Times - Fenty Commits To MLS Stadium

2008-02-15T21:10:00.006-05:00

Mayor Adrian Fenty now appears willing to negotiate terms with the D.C.'s MLS side.

By Tim Lemke
February 15, 2008

D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty said yesterday he is committed to placing a new soccer-only stadium at Poplar Point in Southeast, resurrecting hopes that D.C. United will continue playing in the District.Fenty stressed that the city has not struck a deal with the team but said he has had positive discussions with the Major League Soccer team over the last month about building the stadium as part of a $2.5 billion redevelopment of the 110-acre Poplar Point site.

"We understand that playing at RFK Stadium can't work," Fenty said. "We want to find a new stadium for D.C. United. Since Jan. 2, I can't tell you how many meetings I've personally had with D.C. United, let alone my staff, to try and come up with a proposal that makes sense for the District of Columbia."

Fenty made his remarks after announcing that the District selected Clark Realty as the master developer for the redevelopment of the Poplar Point site. Clark beat out several other companies during a competitive bidding process and has proposed millions of square feet of retail, housing and office space along with a 70-acre park.

During the bidding process for the development, Clark had presented plans that included an option for a new soccer-specific stadium. Clark's sister company, Clark Construction, has built several stadiums including FedEx Field and Nationals Park.
"We're just really coming to the table now," Clark Realty Capital managing director Cleve Johnson said. "Obviously, we've built stadiums, and we'd love the job. We're certainly open to working with them."

Fenty said he favored some public subsidy to construct the stadium, whose cost has been estimated at nearly $200 million. He declined to discuss specific financing plans.
One financing option raised to members of the D.C. Council this week was a plan to use excess revenue from business taxes relating to the financing of the Nationals' new ballpark. Such a plan likely would meet some resistance because many city leaders had hoped the excess revenue would be used to pay down the ballpark debt early, or be reimbursed to the business community.

Julie Chase, a spokeswoman for D.C. United owner Victor MacFarlane, said the team and city are discussing proposals that would call for some city subsidy — but no new taxes — as well as a "significant" contribution from the team. She said details, including how much the team would contribute, are still in the works.

"We're certainly happy to be in these negotiations, and we're just going to take it a step at a time," Chase said.

Talk of a stadium had appeared on life support as recently as last summer, when Fenty announced that he broke off talks with United in favor of pursuing a competitive bidding process for the redevelopment of Poplar Point. D.C. United responded by holding talks with officials in places outside the District, including Prince George's County.But council member Marion Barry, Ward 8 Democrat, said he believed Poplar Point would be redeveloped with a soccer stadium as part of the plan, and supported the use of public funds.

"I want to thank the mayor for being committed the concept of a stadium," Barry said. "A lot of work has to be done. We're on the same page. I've canvassed most of the members of the council, and I'm confident most of the members support enthusiastically the concept of a stadium."

2/15/08: The Washington Post - D.C. United Must Chip In to Get Stadium, Fenty Says

2008-02-14T22:31:00.003-05:00

Ward 8 residents are pushing to use a soccer stadium as a catalyst to develop Poplar Point, along the Anacostia River. (By Alexandra Garcia -- Washingtonpost.com)

By David Nakamura

Washington Post Staff Writer
Friday, February 15, 2008; Page B02

D.C. Mayor Adrian M. Fenty said yesterday that he would support a public subsidy for a new professional soccer stadium if the team also invested in the project, stating that he opposed spending public money on the Washington Nationals' $611 million ballpark because the deal was too "one-sided."

Fenty (D) made his comments at a news conference near the site of where the project would be built along the Anacostia River. He sought to temper expectations about his administration's commitment to creating a new home for D.C. United, saying no deal had been struck for a proposed 27,000-seat stadium at Poplar Point, a 110-acre swath of neglected parkland.

Yet talk of a new stadium brought swift and divided reaction from residents, business leaders and activists, foreshadowing a replay of the protracted debate over the baseball stadium.

On Wednesday, Fenty told D.C. Council members in a private meeting that he was considering using up to $20 million a year in excess tax money being raised for the Nationals' ballpark to fund $150 million in construction bonds for a soccer stadium. The city also would lease 11 acres, valued by administration officials at $40 million, to United, bringing the public subsidy to $190 million.

"No one ever said there could not be public dollars" for baseball, said Fenty, who voted against the baseball package as a council member. "We said it had to be a fair deal. The baseball deal was completely one-sided. I would never support a deal that is 100 percent city-funded. I would support a deal that is a public-private partnership. Have we seen that deal yet? No."

D.C. government officials and a source close to United's owner, Victor B. MacFarlane, said the team would pay a significant amount of money toward construction, but they declined to be specific.

At the news conference, Fenty announced that Clark Realty of Bethesda had been selected as the master developer for Poplar Point, federal property in Ward 8 that is being transferred to the District. Clark has proposed a $2.5 billion mixed-use development with housing, offices, retail space, a 70-acre park mandated by the federal government, an environmental museum and business hub, and a "deck" that connects Anacostia to the new development. A soccer stadium is optional in the plan.

Fenty did not mention the stadium until it was brought up by council member Marion Barry (D-Ward 8), who supports the plan.

Barry and a dozen civic activists who attended the news conference said the stadium would spur long-awaited development in their ward. Residents, many of whom criticized Fenty for breaking off negotiations with MacFarlane last summer, chanted "Four more years!" as Barry thanked Fenty for "listening to the community."

The stadium "will be an anchor for all the other activity taking place," said James Bunn, head of the Ward 8 Business Council.

But business leaders, environmentalists and social activists raised concerns.

Since 2004, the largest D.C. businesses have been paying a special tax toward the 30-year construction bonds for the baseball stadium project. The debt could be retired several years early if the excess tax money is not used for other projects, according to a recent analysis by D.C. Chief Financial Officer Natwar M. Gandhi, and the special business tax could be discontinued.

James C. Dinegar, president of the Greater Washington Board of Trade, said businesses are upset that the council is moving forward with legislation that would require paid sick leave for all workers. He said the Board of Trade would consider the soccer stadium proposal if the city presents a cost-benefit analysis that shows a healthy upside.

But retiring the debt early "is always a prudent business move," Dinegar said. "Obviously, the economy looms large right now. There is unpredictability in the near future and long term. The cost to doing business in the District of Columbia continues to climb."

Barbara Lang, president of the D.C. Chamber of Commerce, said: "What we had hoped is that the bonds for baseball would be paid off earlier to relieve the business community of some of the fee."

Gandhi has cautioned city officials to begin conserving money amid a national economic downturn. He also has warned that the city is approaching its borrowing threshold on Wall Street.

Meanwhile, the coalition of environmentalists and social activists that fought the baseball stadium plan drafted a letter to Fenty and the council yesterday stating strong opposition to the soccer plan.

"At a time when the District is likely to face serious budget constraints due to a slowing economy, it is especially appalling to propose a huge subsidy for a luxury like a soccer stadium rather than investing in the basic needs of D.C. residents," the letter said.

2/14/08: The Examiner - United Gets The Ultimate Valentine’s Gift

2008-02-14T18:41:00.004-05:00

(Andrew Harnik/Examiner)
D.C. United owners Victor MacFarland (left), Will Chang (right), Brian Davis (right) and Washington D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty (center), at a recent event for D.C. United owners.

By. Craig Stouffer, The Examiner
WASHINGTON (Map, News) - In a dramatic turnaround, the District of Columbia government has dropped its long-held resistance to a stadium for D.C. United and instead will announce today that it plans to contribute funds for the construction of a 27,000-seat arena at Poplar Point, the Examiner has learned.

The district will pay between $150-230 million to build a soccer-specific stadium — which will keep D.C. United from moving to the suburbs — on top of $236 million to subsidize infrastructure improvements, The stadium plan will be part of an announcement today of the selection of a primary developer for the Poplar Point site, across the Anacostia River from the Washington Nationals baseball stadium.

D.C. United officials did not return calls seeking comment.

After more than two years of informal negotiations over the development of Poplar Point, talks between the district and team over the development of the site broke down seven months ago. United had offered to pay for a stadium, but after talks broke down, was considering possible stadium sites in Greenbelt and New Carrollton.

If the plan is approved, it will become the largest publicly funded soccer-specific stadium in Major League Soccer by far, more than double the estimated $65 contributed by Commerce City, Colo., for Dick’s Sporting Goods Park outside of Denver, which opened last year.

Red Bull is paying $180-200 million for a stadium in Harrison, N.J., outside of New York City, according to reports. The Pennsylvania state government also recently approved a package that included $25 million, combined with $30 million from Delaware County and the city of Chester, toward a stadium in the Philadelphia suburb.

2/14/08: The Washington Business Journal - Clark Realty Capital Wins; Soccer Stadium Still In Play

2008-02-14T18:08:00.004-05:00

Clarke Realty's Proposal For The Poplar Point Development

By. Jonathan O'Connell Staff Reporter

D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty has picked Clark Realty Capital LLC to develop Poplar Point, a 40-acre plot of waterfront property on the Anacostia River.

At the Thursday announcement, held atop the parking garage of the Anacostia Metro station, Fenty said Clark's proposal "was the most superior" and that it would bring amenities east of the river "that residents of this area have desired and wanted for a long time."

A soccer stadium seems likely to be included in the deal.

D.C. asked the final three teams, Clark, Forest City and Archstone Smith-Madison Marquette to work options for a soccer stadium into their proposals and Fenty and Victor MacFarlane, owner of D.C. United, are negotiating a subsidy package to include a soccer stadium, plans Fenty shared with the D.C. Council late Wednesday.

But the mayor refuted press reports that stated the city planned to offer varying subsidies of between $150 million and $200 million. Fenty acknowledged that a stadium would require an agreement on a public subsidy "but we don't have it yet." Neil Albert, deputy mayor for economic development, estimated the cost of a 27,000-seat soccer stadium at between $200 million and $300 million and said MacFarlane had offered to pay a "significant portion" of that.

As a councilman, Fenty opposed $611 million in public financing for the Washington Nationals' stadium and backed out of direct negotiations with D.C. United for a stadium last summer. But Fenty criticized suggestions that the current negotiations represented an about-face from his votes, saying a subsidy for a United stadium would not resemble the "one-sided deal" for the baseball stadium.

Councilmembers Marion Barry, D-Ward 8, and Yvette Alexander, D-Ward 7, were on hand to applaud the announcement.

"I want to thank the mayor for being committed to the concept of a stadium," said Barry, a stadium supporter. He said he was sure there was enough votes on the council to pass a stadium proposal

Whether or not it includes a stadium, Clark has proposed a $236 million public subsidy for infrastructure for the $2.5 billion project. The Arlington-based arm of Clark Enterprises proposed building 1.5 million square feet of offices, 3,200 residential units, 405,000 square feet of retail and 224,000 square feet of hotels. Arlington-based Clark also planned an international environmental facility as a center for sustainable energy education and industry, as well as a pre-K through 12th grade school in partnership with KIPP, the network of charter schools that already serves hundreds of Ward 8 children.

All of the new development would surround 70 acres of park space.

Seven teams initially responded to the city's solicitation for offers, and three were quickly eliminated before the remaining four presented their ideas to the community in December. In the meantime, MacFarlane entered discussions with Maryland officials about the possibility of building a stadium in Prince George's County for D.C. United.

The federal government still controls the land, and D.C. estimates that it will take 12 to 18 months to transfer National Park Service facilities on Poplar Point to another location. The U.S. Secretary of the Interior will then have to certify plans for the site before it is transferred to the city.

Construction is not likely to begin until 2010 or 2011.

2/14/2008: The Washington Post - Fenty: No Deal for Poplar Point Soccer Stadium

2008-02-14T14:15:00.003-05:00

Ward 8 residents are pushing to use a soccer stadium as a catalyst to develop Poplar Point, along the Anacostia River. (By Alexandra Garcia -- Washingtonpost.com)

By David Nakamura
Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, February 14, 2008; 1:04 PM

Mayor Adrian M. Fenty said today that no deal has been struck to use public funds to build a professional soccer stadium in Southeast Washington. He also said his talks with D.C. United about a partnership do not represent a drastic departure from his stance against public financing of the Nationals baseball stadium.

The proposed new stadium would cost as much as $190 million in public money -- $150 million in construction bonds and $40 million in land leased to the D.C. United soccer franchise, according to government sources.

In a private meeting with the D.C. Council yesterday, Fenty (D) said the District has been collecting $20 million a year in excess revenue from city taxes related to the financing of the baseball stadium, the sources said.

Fenty said the city could use that revenue to pay for construction bonds for a 27,000-seat soccer stadium for United, said the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the discussion was private. Such a plan could prove controversial in the business community, which has been paying additional taxes since 2004 toward the baseball project. The District instead could choose to use the excess tax money to retire the 30-year baseball stadium bonds early, city officials said.

As a council member, Fenty repeatedly voted against public financing of the $611 million baseball stadium. Since taking office, he has been under increasing pressure from Ward 8 residents to use a soccer stadium as a catalyst to develop a barren 110-arce parcel, known as Poplar Point, along the Anacostia River.

At a morning news conference today in Anacostia, Fenty played down the stadium discussions, saying: "We're not at that point yet. Nothing has been finalized."

When asked how he would square supporting public dollars for a soccer stadium against his previous stance on baseball, Fenty said his position had been misrepresented.

"No one ever said there could not be public dollars" for baseball, Fenty said. "We said it had to be a fair deal. The baseball deal was completely one-sided. I would never support a deal that is 100 percent city-funded. I would support a deal that is a public-private partnership. Have we seen that deal yet? No."

Sources close to D.C. United said that under the latest stadium proposal the team would contribute "significant equity" to the project.

The mayor also announced at the news conference that he has selected Clark Realty Capital, a Bethesda-based company, as the master developer of Poplar Point.

Clark, which won an open competition for the site, proposed a mixed-use development that includes housing, retail, a 70-acre park mandated by the federal government, a hub of businesses dedicated to the environment, a charter school and a three-block "deck" built over Interstate 295 so that Anacostia residents can walk to Poplar Point. An optional stadium was also included.

When asked about the discussions in the meeting, council member Marion Barry (D-Ward 8), who has backed a stadium, said: "My understanding is that a stadium will be part of the deal. The community has been empowered and their voices heard."

Council member Phil Mendelson (D-At Large), who voted against the baseball financing, said, "We learned in the baseball debate that the public is leery of public financing, and there are many who will say, 'Here we go again.' "

D.C. United began threatening to move to Prince George's County after Fenty broke off informal negotiations with team owner Victor B. MacFarlane in July. Fenty thought that MacFarlane's plan, which required $350 million in public subsidies for infrastructure, was too expensive for the city.

"We do not have any deal with the District," said Julie Chase, a spokeswoman for MacFarlane.

United plays at the 47-year-old RFK Stadium and will be the sole tenant there after the Nationals move in spring into their new ballpark, near the Navy Yard and South Capitol Street SE.

Fenty has said repeatedly that he would try to keep United in the District. But according to government sources, he has feared supporting a publicly financed soccer stadium lest he become embroiled in the kind of bitter, lengthy political fight that his predecessor, Anthony A. Williams (D), waged over the baseball stadium project.

Williams fought for almost two years before the council gave final approval to the baseball financing package. Among the highlights of the negotiations was a night in 2005 when the council voted to reject one version of the deal, only to reverse course and approve it about 1 a.m.

Fenty, the sources said, wants to ensure that he has the support of the majority of the council before he makes a public announcement.

Even if the council agreed to use public money for a soccer stadium, the larger Poplar Point development project is likely to cost much more in public funds. The Clark proposal could cost $200 million to $350 million for infrastructure, including roads, sewers, lights and the park. Some of those costs almost certainly would fall on the city.

Administration officials will negotiate with Clark Realty for the next six to nine months to nail down the development plan. Environmental remediation could take as long as 1 1/2 years before construction begins, officials have said. The overall plans could take more than a decade to realize, officials said, although the soccer stadium probably would be in the first wave of building, within three to four years.

Amidst Hope There Is Confusion and Doubt...

2008-02-14T12:39:00.006-05:00

Clarke Realty's Proposal For The Poplar Point Development

By.Chris Pittman

I can't lie. Yesterday when I heard that our new buddy(?) Adrian Fenty is now planning to propose public funding for the building of a stadium at Poplar Point, I nearly jumped out of my seat. News like this has been a long time coming, and I for one was pretty psyched. But...

After a few hours my conscious started to kick in and I realized just how unjust this is (if true) for the taxpayers within The District. I love D.C. United, but I originally invested myself in this whole debacle because there seemed to be a sort of moral battle in this issue. I didn't like the idea of the government going through with a development that seemed to not have the best interests of the citizens in hand. I firmly believed (and still do) that any development at Poplar Point without a "privately" financed United stadium would be a failure.

Now after getting a little more information regarding what exactly Fenty is proposing I have to honest and say that I'm downright confused. I think the choice to partner with Clarke is wise since they, by far had the best plan for both the city, the people, and the team. I just cannot understand the numbers and logic behind the Mayor's decision. Why would he offer public financing? He has to know that the city will also have to cover the infrastructure costs? This now almost doubles the districts bill?

After politically shooting down United's plan months ago it seemed as if United would never get Fenty's full support. He had cut off all negotiations and publicly distanced himself from the team. So why now all of the sudden has his tune changed? Why now has he decided to throw up more money than was originally asked for?

My only guess would have to be that Fenty must have finally felt some real growing pressure from PG county's bid for the team. Looking at the numbers the Mayor had to have realized that The District is better with United, than without. So now he is about to make, what appears to be a hasty political bid to keep the team in The District... on his terms. Who knows how MacFarland will react to this offer. My gut tells me that he and the United front office will take it as a positive sign and re-start negotiations with The District. They most likely won't be interested in a deal that requires them to submit to the DCSC, so I wouldn't be surprised if this drag's out over the next few months before we get any definitive answers on who will pay for and own the stadium.

This seems to be a positive step, but the team and the city both need to see that this gets done in a way that doesn't forget the peoples interests. United has waited too many years for this stadium to just let it slip by. They'll work hard to see that it gets done right.

2/14/2008: The Examiner - Taxpayers to Foot $150M of D.C. United Stadium Costs

2008-02-14T09:17:00.002-05:00

Feb 14, 2008 3:00 AM (6 hrs ago)
by Bill Myers and Craig Stouffer
The Examiner

WASHINGTON (Map, News) - Mayor Adrian Fenty has agreed to use at least $150 million in taxpayer dollars to help build a soccer stadium as part of a deal that will keep D.C. United in the city, The Examiner has learned.

Fenty held a closed-door meeting with District Council members Wednesday and told them that Clark Realty Capital LLC will be paid another $236 million to rebuild the Poplar Point development East of the Anacostia River, city hall sources said. As part of the project, Clark will build a new soccer field for D.C. United, the sources said.

The city would contribute at least $150 million of the total cost of $230 million to build the stadium, multiple sources said.

The plan will be announced today at a news conference.

It comes over objections from council members David Catania, I-at large, and Carol Schwartz, R-at large, who balked at shuffling yet more taxpayer dollars into another stadium project after committing large amounts of public money to the Washington Nationals, sources told The Examiner.

The deal represents a reconciliation between Fenty and Victor MacFarlane, United’s owner. MacFarlane, a prominent developer, had threatened to take his team to the suburbs because Fenty wouldn’t commit public money to a new stadium.

Doug Hicks, a spokesman for the team, refused to comment.

Fenty spokeswoman Carrie Brooks also did not respond to requests for comment.

The mayor was apparently persuaded by his deputy, Neil Albert, council chair Vincent C. Gray and member Jack Evans, D-Ward 2, chair of the council’s finance committee. Gray and Evans met with Albert separately on Monday and mapped out plans to help the mayor win support for United’s public financing.

According to sources familiar with Wednesday’s meeting, Catania — an outspoken critic of the publicly financed Washington Nationals stadium — said Fenty was playing fast and loose with the public’s finances.

Poplar Point deal

» $236 million for “infrastructure”

» $150 million-$230 million to build 27,000-seat stadium

» City to control stadium

Got a tip on the new stadium deal? Call Bill Myers at 202-459-4956 or e-mail bmyers@dcexaminer.com.

2/14/2008: The Washington Post - Fenty Eyes Public Funds for Soccer Stadium

2008-02-14T00:52:00.003-05:00

Ward 8 residents are pushing to use a soccer stadium as a catalyst to develop Poplar Point, along the Anacostia River. (By Alexandra Garcia -- Washingtonpost.com)

By David Nakamura

Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, February 14, 2008; Page A01

Mayor Adrian M. Fenty has proposed using public funds to build a professional soccer stadium in Southeast Washington that would cost as much as $190 million, a drastic departure from his stance against public financing of the Nationals baseball stadium.

In a private meeting with the D.C. Council yesterday, Fenty (D) said the District has been collecting $20 million a year in excess revenue from city taxes related to the financing of the baseball stadium, according to government sources with knowledge of the meeting.

Fenty said the city could use that revenue to pay for construction bonds for a 27,000-seat soccer stadium for D.C. United, said the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the discussion was private. Such a plan could prove controversial in the business community, which has been paying additional taxes since 2004 toward the baseball project. The District instead could choose to use the excess tax money to retire the 30-year baseball stadium bonds early, city officials said.

Fenty, who as a council member repeatedly voted against public financing of the $611 million baseball stadium, declined to comment yesterday. Since taking office, he has been under increasing pressure from Ward 8 residents to use a soccer stadium as a catalyst to develop a barren 110-arce parcel, known as Poplar Point, along the Anacostia River.

The mayor plans to announce at a news conference in Anacostia today that he has selected Clark Realty Capital, a Bethesda-based company, as the master developer of Poplar Point.

Clark, which won an open competition for the site, proposed a mixed-use development that includes housing, retail, a 70-acre park mandated by the federal government, a hub of businesses dedicated to the environment, a charter school and a three-block "deck" built over Interstate 295 so that Anacostia residents can walk to Poplar Point. An optional stadium was also included.

When asked about the discussions in the meeting, council member Marion Barry (D-Ward 8), who has backed a stadium, said: "My understanding is that a stadium will be part of the deal. The community has been empowered and their voices heard."

Council member Phil Mendelson (D-At Large), who voted against the baseball financing, said, "We learned in the baseball debate that the public is leery of public financing, and there are many who will say, 'Here we go again.' "

D.C. United has been threatening to move to Prince George's County after Fenty broke off informal negotiations with team owner Victor B. MacFarlane in July. Fenty thought MacFarlane's plan, which required $350 million in public subsidies for infrastructure, was too expensive for the city.

"We do not have any deal with the District," said Julie Chase, a spokeswoman for MacFarlane.

United plays at the 47-year-old RFK stadium and will be the sole tenant there after the Nationals move in spring into their new ballpark, near the Navy Yard and South Capitol Street SE.

Fenty, the sources said, wants to ensure that he has the support of the majority of the council before he makes a public announcement.

Conflicting Reports of Progress

2008-02-13T22:51:00.003-05:00

So news broke not too long ago that progress has finally been made with Mayor Adrian Fenty. As stated here earlier it seems that (if the current reports are correct) Mayor Fenty does in fact want a United stadium at Poplar Point. It sounds like he wants it so much now that he's now offering to pay for the damn thing. Whether MacFarland and Co. will go for that has yet to be seen, but either way it looks as if a resolution to this debacle might be right around the corner. Here's NBC and ABC's takes on the matter...
-------------------------
News4 has learned that Mayor Adrian Fenty plans to propose building a $200 million soccer stadium on the banks of the Anacostia River across from the city's new Nationals ballpark.

Sources told News4's Tom Sherwood that the soccer stadium would be part of a $1 billion development deal on about 40 acres of land at Poplar Point along the river. The sources said the mayor will announce as early as Thursday that he has selected Clark Construction to develop the land.

Under the mayor's proposal, which must be approved by the D.C. Council, the city would spend about $200 million on the soccer stadium. Funds to pay for the soccer stadium bonds would come from taxes and revenue that already are being generated by the new baseball stadium, which opens in late March.

If approved by the council, the stadium deal would keep the D.C. United team in the District. Soccer team owner Victor Macfarlane has been talking about moving the team to a suburban location.

In addition to the soccer stadium, the city is expected to spend about $240 million on street, sewage and other public works improvements on the land.
-------------------------
and now ABC's...
-------------------------
Sources tell ABC 7 News D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty will announce at a morning news conference the city has offered a deal to D.C. United to build a stadium at Poplar Point in Anacostia, keeping the soccer team in the city.

The mayor briefed council members on his plan Wednesday, according to sources, saying he would like the immediate backing of the majority of the council before moving forward with the deal. It's not clear what will happen if the seven members don't come forward. Sources say under the mayor's plan, the city would lease 11 of the 110 acres at Poplar Point and provide the land to D.C. United for a stadium. The rest of the land would go to Clarke Construction, which the mayor has chosen as having the best plan to develop the area.

An earlier plan, which Fenty rejected, would have given the entire site to D.C. United and it's backers to develop.
-------------------------
Well there you have it. If I was a betting man I'd have to say that the odds are looking pretty good for a United park within The District. Who knows which report is correct and which way United will go on the offer, but either way, for the first time in a long time it seems as if our local government wants us again. It's a nice feeling. I'll be back tomorrow with an update...

No News Must Be Good News... Right?

2008-02-07T18:27:00.000-05:00

So it's been quite awhile now since we've heard any concrete information on DCU's stadium search. This could either be good or bad. This week I'm leaning towards good, and I'll tell you why...

Right now United has two solid stadium site options within two separately governed areas. This is unchartered territory for this organization since beginning this ordeal years ago, and they finally now have some leverage to use when negotiating with the D.C. government. It's a well know fact that all three of the developers bidding for master development rights at Poplar Point are in talks with Victor MacFarland and D.C. United. It's also known that all three of those developers now have officially outlined their plans with a United stadium as an option. D.C. United has gained substantial support in the D.C. council. Many members have voiced their support of a stadium and it's safe to assume that if somehow a master plan is put forth for a vote that does not include a United park, they would vote it down. It seems that anyone who is involved in this debacle has to realize that Poplar Point needs a catalyst for economic change, and the only suitable catalyst that can be seen at this time is a D.C. United stadium.

This, of course doesn't mean that a United stadium is right around the corner. No, first Victor MacFarland and Co. have to agree to a suitable timeline for the development. The Poplar Point development could possibly take over a decade to finish. A United stadium would have to be the first thing built in the development, and even before that could happen their would have to
to be an enormous effort from the city to environmentally clean the area. This also could take quite awhile. I'd like to believe that Kevin Payne and former Mayor Anthony Williams took all of this into account years ago, but with the way things have gone I really don't know. Either way it's beginning to look more and more likely that United will have it's choice of location when this is all said and done.

The bright side to all of this might actually be the fact that, for the Redskins to move back into the city, United must first vacate RFK. I don't see the district running DCU out of town to build the Snyder Dome, rather I'd like to think that this is just one more reason for the District to work with United in completing a stadium deal in Anacostia. Maybe I'm a glass half full kind of guy, but it just seems the more logical option.

So, Where Do We Stand...?

2008-01-27T23:56:00.000-05:00

By Chris Pittman

Are things going well right now, or are they going bad? Is PG County devoting $75,000 dollars to stadium surveying good, or bad? I'm really having a hard time measuring our chances of success at Poplar Point right now. Jonetta Rose Barras seems pretty sure a deal will be made in the near future. Here's an excerpt from her blog...

Government sources say Fenty and his deputy mayor for planning and economic development, Neil Albert are poised to announce later this week the selection of the developer for Poplar Point. Their proposal of choice includes a soccer stadium, say sources. Two of four developers who presented last month their plans for the southeast site have included a stadium: Archstone-Smith, Madison/Marquette and Clark Realty.

Poplar Point development has been controversial since last summer when Fenty ended negotiations with Victor MacFarlane, a developer and part owner of D.C. United soccer team. MacFarlane had thought he had an agreement that his company would have exclusive development rights because of discussions he had with former Mayor Anthony A. William. Not so said Fenty. And the game was on to find a developer.

Ward 8 Council member Barry and others in the community were angry over Fenty’s move, believing that a stadium would not be in the mix. But the plans submitted by proposed developers proved otherwise. TBR could not determine which developer was actually chosen. Deputy Mayor Albert could not be reached for comment.

We now know that the timeline of her information is most definitely incorrect (since this was written on the 6th of this month), but one thing can be said of JR Barras, she knows her stuff. I don't see her writing that and being completely off-base. There has to be some truth to it. I guess we'll just have to wait and see.

The Leap Frogger

2008-01-25T01:57:00.000-05:00

By Chris Pittman

So, I don't think I have to say how I felt today when I read that Emperor Fenty is planning to present the Redskins with a proposal to return to The District and build a 100,000 seating dome on RFK (our current stadium). This was rumored to happen quite awhile ago, it's just that I think most fans (both United and Redskins) assumed that D.C. United's future would be resolved before anything was made official. Ahh how naive we all are.

To be honest when you step back and think about it, none of this is all that surprising. I mean look at the decisions Fenty has made in every dept. since taking office. He's sort of what I would call a leap frogger. He not only thinks ten steps ahead, but he (in most cases) just skips the nine in between so as to seem that he's getting alot done, when in actuality he's getting nothing done. It's not a bad political technique, I mean the guy did win every ward running on that policy. You have to give it to the guy, he's ambitious and he wants to change things. Whether he's going about it in the right or wrong manner has yet to be seen.

To come back to the point, Fenty lied to us. And Yes, I know all politicians lie, it's an obvious fact, but very rarely do politicians have the guts to do it so blatantly as Adrian Fenty did. He stood there in front of 26,000 people and petitioned for our vote in the promise that he would make a United stadium at Poplar Point a priority. This was said not only for the sake of the team, but also for the sake of the residents of Ward 8. He's a smart guy (I think). He knows what a development with a stadium will do for that ward. He knows that not only is it beneficial for United to stay within The District, it's also better for the District itself. He stood there, made his speech and stole the hearts of every United fan and Ward 8 resident in attendance.

Now nearly a year later and still no decision on Poplar Point after terminating direct talks with United six months ago Adrian Fenty is beginning to court Dan Snyder in hopes that they can build a stadium on top of ours. I am disgusted, and I say that being a lifelong Redskins fan. It's no secret that if the Redskins were to consider coming back to the district it would take alot of public money to make it happen. Snyder will not leave a 10 year old stadium unless The District shows him the money.

Didn't we offer to pay for our stadium in full? This is an un-even game of leap frog, and I'm afraid we're about to get hopped over.

1/23/08: The Washington Post - Md. Weighs Stadium for D.C. United

2008-01-23T08:22:00.000-05:00

Study Will Gauge Pr. George's Benefits

By Ovetta Wiggins Washington Post Staff Writer
Wednesday, January 23, 2008; Page B01

With negotiations to build a stadium for D.C. United stalled in the District, Maryland officials have agreed to consider constructing a home for the soccer team in Prince George's County.

The Maryland Stadium Authority has decided to spend $75,000 on a feasibility study to look at the economic impact and potential tax benefits. The step concerned Vincent C. Gray, chairman of the D.C. Council, who noted the team's success and potential for financial growth.

"I continue to believe that we should work with D.C. United to construct the stadium in Poplar Point," Gray (D) said.

The study comes two months after Prince George's County Executive Jack B. Johnson (D) wrote a letter to David Raith, the stadium authority's acting director, asking the state to help the county lure the team.

In the letter, Johnson said that he met with Victor B. MacFarlane, the managing principal of the team, and Kevin Payne, the chief executive, in November and that they had expressed interest in sites in the county.

"Prince George's County is prepared to work with D.C. United to make this their new home, and would like the support and assistance of the Maryland Stadium Authority to make this happen," Johnson wrote.

United had been informally negotiating with Mayor Adrian M. Fenty (D) about building a stadium and mixed-use development at Poplar Point along the Anacostia River, but the talks broke down last summer.

United has shown interest in two locations in College Park. But David Byrd, deputy chief administrative officer for the county, said Johnson wants the team to build a stadium near the Metro stations in New Carrollton or Greenbelt, where it could anchor a mixed-used development.

"The new D.C. United stadium . . . would be a tremendous addition to our county, bringing not only great economic benefit but adding significantly to the identity of Prince George's County, and enhancing the lifestyle our residents and visitors enjoy," Johnson wrote.

The county's mission was also twofold when it pursued the Washington Redskins: to raise revenue and lift the image of a county that has been snubbed by investors for high-end retail and residential projects.

A 1997 report estimated that the football stadium, then known as Jack Kent Cooke Stadium, would generate $6 million in taxes a year: $2 million in property taxes and nearly $4 million in admission and sales taxes.

In fiscal 2006, the county received $10 million, including more than $8 million in admission and amusement taxes, from the stadium, now FedEx Field.

Raith said the stadium authority received approval from the state budget committees this month for the study, and it held a teleconference yesterday with companies interested in submitting proposals for the contract.

The contract is likely to be awarded late next month, and the report should be completed by late summer or early fall, Raith said.

The report will assess the direct and indirect impact of the stadium and the creation of jobs during construction and operation, and identify comparable facilities.

Johnson is not the only one who has suggested that Maryland try to lure the team. Comptroller Peter Franchot sent a letter to the authority's chairman, Frederick W. Puddester, in October suggesting that the state find a site for a stadium.

Franchot sent the letter to the stadium authority after learning that MacFarlane had hired consultants to look at potential sites in Maryland and Virginia.

Johnson said the county could expect more than 50 games and concerts at the stadium each year, with an attendance of more than 1 million.

"It's important to note the stadium will be a significant regional draw, bringing all new tax dollars to Prince George's County and our state," Johnson said.

He added that Prince George's has a "significant advantage over other jurisdictions in the region" because of its history with the stadium authority to promote similar developments.

Keeping The Faith

2008-01-23T02:53:00.000-05:00

By Chris Pittman

"It takes a leap of faith to get things going,

It takes a leap of faith you gotta show some guts,

It takes a leap of faith to get things going,

In your heart you must trust"

-The Boss

When thinking about Poplar Point, it almost now seems like a dream. Some imagined place that is unattainable... unreachable. I almost forget how much of dump the place really is. I try to be rational about it and remind myself of the real life constrictions that now, and possibly will indefinitely impede us from building the park of our dreams there...

But thats when I'm thinking with my head...

When I dig down right into my gut, when I really search for how I feel about this debacle anymore I find faith. It's funny cause I've never been a very religious guy. It's never been the rational option to me. Faith? I think I barely know the meaning of the word in the context of organized religion. I guess in all honesty I've only felt true, real faith for a few things in my life. Two of them would be my family, and D.C. United. For a lot of Americans that'd be hard to believe, but I'm 21 years old now and I feel an amazing kinship with this team. It makes me question what faith really is? Whose to say that going to United games couldn't be considered a religious experience? I mean whats the difference? You meet once or twice a week, sing songs, and feel a connection. You're there with so many others who care deeply for the same things you do. How is it any different?

Maybe that's a stretch? I hope I didn't offend anyone with those remarks, and I'm sorry if thats the case. I don't mean to devalue religion or faith by comparing it to a soccer team, it's just the way I feel.

In short I just wanted to write and say that I, for one have faith. I have faith that Kevin Payne and Victor MacFarland are smart enough men to not have wasted these years chasing a dream. I have faith in the rational that if United were to not get a stadium at Poplar Point after all this time they would surely be the most incompetent sports organization I have ever known... and that just can't be. Can it?

...

I hope I don't loose my faith...

1/18/08: WTOP News.com - Soccer Stadium at Poplar Point Could Help Nats Parking

2008-01-23T02:16:00.000-05:00

Adam Tuss, WTOP Radio
January 18, 2008 - 4:02pm

(AP)

The plan for a new soccer stadium could help ease the challenges of parking at the new baseball stadium.

D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty is expected to pick a developer for a 110-acre plot of land known as Poplar Point in Southeast by the end of the month. That land sits adjacent to the new ballpark, across the Anacostia River. Some of the possible plans for that plot of land do include a soccer stadium for D.C. United.

D.C. Council Chair Vincent C. Gray believes if a soccer stadium is built, parking around that complex could be used to add 4,000 to 5,000 additional parking spots for Nationals Park.

"Poplar Point really is very close to the site of the new baseball stadium, " says Gray.

With 20 to 25 dates reserved for soccer, Gray says baseball fans would have access to the soccer stadium lots.

"You could park over at Poplar Point, come across a pedestrian bridge, or otherwise be transported the short distance to the baseball stadium," says Gray.

The plan for more parking, along with Metro's recommendation that fans use the Green Line, could help ease the flow of crowds once the park opens. The first scheduled event at the new ballpark is March 29, an exhibition between the Nationals and Orioles.

(Copyright 2008 by WTOP. All Rights Reserved.)
Adam Tuss, WTOP Radio

WASHINGTON - The plan for a new soccer stadium could help ease the challenges of parking at the new baseball stadium.

D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty is expected to pick a developer for a 110-acre plot of land known as Poplar Point in Southeast by the end of the month. That land sits adjacent to the new ballpark, across the Anacostia River. Some of the possible plans for that plot of land do include a soccer stadium for D.C. United.

D.C. Council Chair Vincent C. Gray believes if a soccer stadium is built, parking around that complex could be used to add 4,000 to 5,000 additional parking spots for Nationals Park.

"Poplar Point really is very close to the site of the new baseball stadium, " says Gray.

With 20 to 25 dates reserved for soccer, Gray says baseball fans would have access to the soccer stadium lots.

"You could park over at Poplar Point, come across a pedestrian bridge, or otherwise be transported the short distance to the baseball stadium," says Gray.

The plan for more parking, along with Metro's recommendation that fans use the Green Line, could help ease the flow of crowds once the park opens. The first scheduled event at the new ballpark is March 29, an exhibition between the Nationals and Orioles.

(Copyright 2008 by WTOP. All Rights Reserved.)

1/15/08: The Washington Post - Poplar Point Prospects Prompt Dialogue

2008-01-23T02:05:00.000-05:00

Soccer Stadium Among Possibilities

By David Nakamura

Washington Post Staff Writer
Tuesday, January 15, 2008; Page B01

The District government publicly unveiled several proposals last month to turn Poplar Point, a 110-acre swath of parkland along the Anacostia River, into a regional attraction. Since then, the possibilities for jobs and development have a lot of people expressing an opinion as the area moves another step closer to a plan being realized.

At least two plans include options for a soccer stadium, an idea that has enjoyed the backing of D.C. Council member Marion Barry (D-Ward 8) but doesn't have as much support across the city. A Washington Post poll of 1,000 residents conducted last week showed that 36 percent favored using public funds for a soccer stadium, but 60 percent opposed it.

A soccer stadium is just one of a number of issues about Poplar Point's future that have energized the discussion in Anacostia.

In a small community center, the Historic Anacostia Block Association held an hour-long discussion about the plans and the community's future. At a church, Barry gathered residents to hear their input. On the Web, a blog devoted to Anacostia news is conducting a poll of residents on the proposals.

"For the most part, folks are generally excited about what they're seeing," said Charles E. Wilson, co-founder of the block association, who moderated the discussion. "It's always good to have healthy discussion. We're not trying to come to consensus. We're trying to see how people feel."

The future of Poplar Point has been on the minds of Ward 8 residents for more than three years, ever since District officials announced plans to acquire the property from the federal government. But now that Mayor Adrian M. Fenty (D) has said he will choose a "master developer" this month to partner with the city, the project has taken on a sense of urgency in a community that has grown impatient with the city's pace.

Last week, the Fenty administration narrowed the competition to three development teams: Clark Realty Capital, Forest City and a joint effort from Archstone Smith and Madison Marquette. A winner could be announced next week, administration officials said.

Neil O. Albert, Fenty's deputy mayor for economic development, has said that the selection will be based largely on which developer has the expertise and finances to pull off a massive project that is rife with challenges. The city must relocate the National Park Service from the site and prepare the land for construction. It could take two more years before a developer breaks ground on the shops and restaurants that residents are so eager for, and a decade before the majority of the project is complete, city officials said.

Ultimately, Albert said, whichever developer is selected almost certainly will be asked to change plans several times. For residents, regardless of the winning selection, key factors are jobs and business opportunities in the city's poorest ward, where unemployment has hovered around 12 percent, the highest in the District.

"I'm willing to work with whoever wins," said M.J. Lee, an advisory neighborhood commissioner. "But we will be holding people accountable because, in the past, the government has failed in terms of awarding people jobs."

Under the terms of the competitive bid process established by the Fenty administration, the developers were asked to agree that 51 percent of all new jobs created by the Poplar Point development would go to District residents, with 20 percent reserved for residents of Ward 8. In addition, 35 percent of the contracts awarded by the master developer must go to small, disadvantaged businesses, including 10 percent located in Ward 8.
But many residents don't just want to be hired -- they want an ownership stake in the development. At a lively meeting on the Poplar Point plans called by Barry at the Bethlehem Baptist Church on a recent Saturday morning, Jackie Ward, a neighborhood activist, urged the audience of about 50 to ask the developers for equity.

"We have to go to the companies and tell them we want our people trained and the mechanisms to make sure our people can take advantage," she said.

The Fenty administration has asked the companies to wait until a winner is selected before talking with residents about the specifics of economic opportunities.

Each development team included in its plan such basics as housing, retail, restaurants and a 70-acre park mandated as part of the transfer of control of Poplar Point from the federal government to the city. It's the "extras" that have people talking.

So far, Clark's proposal has emerged as the favorite. The plan includes a three-block "deck" that would be built over Interstate 295 so that residents could walk from historic Anacostia to the new development, an environmental museum and business hub, a charter school and an optional soccer stadium.

Clark got the biggest reaction from the crowd of 300 who attended the public unveiling of the plans last month at Birney Elementary School. And of the 52 votes registered in the online poll at the Web site http://www.anacostianow.blogspot.com, 38 have gone to Clark.

"They seemed to hit every aspect -- a school, retail, housing, entertainment, a museum for green space, national parkland," said Greta Fuller, an advisory neighborhood commissioner. "We want to see more than housing; we want to see our community have its own grandstand. We go to Georgetown, U Street, Old Town, but where do we really go in Ward 8?"

Clark's rise has been aided by Barry and his allies, who have supported building a 27,000-seat soccer stadium for D.C. United at Poplar Point. Fenty broke off negotiations with team owner Victor B. MacFarlane last summer, saying his proposal to build a mixed-use development anchored by the stadium required too much public subsidy.

Barry, who has criticized Fenty for snubbing MacFarlane, is supporting the two plans that include stadiums, Clark's and the proposal from Archstone Smith and Madison Marquette.

MacFarlane, who was in attendance when the proposals were unveiled last month, is said to be interested in investing in the project, no matter which company wins.

The Ward 8 community continues to be divided.

"Residents who are asking for a stadium lack vision about . . . what else we can bring. That's dangerous and limiting, " Cynthia Davenport told her neighbors during the Historic Anacostia Block Association meeting. A stadium "would endanger the environs, and add to traffic. . . . The reason I live here is green space."

But Catherine Buell disagreed. To her, Ward 8 needs a major draw, something to attract outsiders to Poplar Point. "We do not necessarily need a stadium," she responded to Davenport, "but we need a reason for people to come to this big mass of land."

Yavocka Young, who bought her house in historic Anacostia 14 years ago, said during the block association meeting that she had considered moving because of the lack of basic services in her neighborhood. But after seeing the Poplar proposals, Young, the executive director of Main Street Anacostia, a nonprofit economic development group, said, "It makes me want to say, 'I'm staying.' ".

1/11/08: Baltimore Business Journal - Stadium Study Could Boost State's Attempt To Lure D.C. Soccer Team

2008-01-23T02:02:00.001-05:00

By. Ryan Sharrow Staff
Baltimore Business Journal
Friday, January 11, 2008

The Maryland Stadium Authority will oversee a study to assess the economic impact of a new Prince George's County stadium that would be home to the D.C. United professional soccer team.

The stadium authority got the green light from the Maryland General Assembly's budget committee Jan. 2 to proceed with the study on the possible relocation of D.C. United to the state, according to a copy of the letter written by Senate Budget Committee Chair Ulysses Currie and obtained by the Business Journal.

The stadium authority will use up to $75,000 in "non-budgeted funds" for the study, said David A. Raith, acting executive director of the stadium authority. The state agency received legislative approval several years ago to spend its own money on studies.

"What we're looking for [in the study] is what the economic impact will be for the state, local county and private [industry] that will support the project cost," he said.

The stadium authority first received a letter from Prince George's County Executive Jack B. Johnson on Nov. 9 requesting the state agency's assistance with luring D.C. United to the county, according to the letter from Johnson.

Talk of Maryland building a new stadium for the United began to heat up in the fall after discussions between D.C. officials and United owner Victor MacFarlane broke down on the possibility of building a new 27,000-seat venue at Poplar Point in the District.

State Comptroller Peter Franchot wrote a letter to Maryland Stadium Authority Chairman Frederick W. Puddester asking him to explore the opportunities of bringing D.C. United to the state.

Meanwhile, D.C. officials are still trying to retain the Major League Soccer franchise. The United currently plays in the 46-year-old RFK Stadium in Southeast D.C.

It is uncertain how the cost for the potential new stadium in Prince George's County would be funded. MacFarlane had previously offered to foot the $150 million bill to build a new stadium in D.C.

The stadium authority will issue a request for proposals for the study within the next 60 days, Raith said, and the findings could be released by this fall. It is unclear whether the study will examine a specific location, Raith said.

Julie Chase, a spokeswoman for MacFarlane, declined to comment. Officials with Prince George's County could not be reached for comment.

1/4/08: The Examiner - Fenty Deputy Quits

2008-01-23T01:58:00.000-05:00

By Bill Myers, The Examiner
Jan 4, 2008 3:00 AM

Neil Richardson, deputy chief of staff to Mayor Adrian Fenty and one of the mayor’s oldest political allies, left the administration Thursday after several months of growing disenchantment with the mayor’s management style, sources said.

Richardson, who had helped Fenty mount a historic door-to-door campaign that made him the District of Columbia’s youngest mayor, confirmed his resignation to The Examiner. He said it was effective immediately.

“Right now, my relationship with the mayor isn’t particularly strong,” Richardson told The Examiner. “But I want him to be successful. I want the city to thrive.”

Sources close to Richardson told The Examiner that he had grown increasingly disillusioned with Fenty since last year’s election. Fenty has been criticized for his secretive style and for emphasizing good public relations over good public policy.

Sources close to Richardson said that he had openly broken with his longtime friend over the development of the Poplar Point project east of the river.

Richardson thought that Fenty was deliberately stalling on the project in a poor neighborhood so that credit wouldn’t go to political rivals.

Carrie Brooks, spokeswoman for Fenty, sent a statement Thursday saying, “We wish him nothing but the best in his future endeavors.”

She declined further comment.

In early December, Attorney General Linda Singer left the administration. Richardson, though, was one of Fenty’s earliest and most dogged supporters. He and the then-council member knocked on doors for two years before Fenty swept every ward in the city.

After the breach over Poplar Point, Richardson, who had worked in the mayor’s “bullpen” — the open cubicles on the third floor of the Wilson Building — was banished to One Judiciary Square in November. Fenty had his Chief of Staff Tene Dolphin deliver the news to Richardson, sources said.

Sources said that Richardson asked to meet with Dolphin just before Christmas and said that he was thinking of leaving. During the discussion, Fenty walked in and asked what was up. When Richardson told Fenty he was thinking of leaving, the mayor said, “You’ll have to talk to Tene about that” and walked out of the room, sources said.

Got a tip on the Fenty administration? Call Bill Myers at 202-459-4956 or send him an e-mail, bmyers@dcexaminer.com.

1/3/08: The Washington Post - Fenty's Deputy Resigns, Citing Disappointment With D.C. Mayor

2008-01-23T01:57:00.000-05:00

By David Nakamura

Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, January 3, 2008; 6:42 PM

D.C. Mayor Adrian M. Fenty's deputy chief of staff has resigned after a year on the job, citing growing disenchantment with the mayor's governing style.

Neil Richardson worked on Fenty's mayoral campaign for two years, often walking door-to-door with him, and helped him develop "best practices" during trips to several big cities shortly before Fenty (D) took office last January.

He was rewarded with a seat in the mayor's bullpen office. Among his duties was organizing events for initiatives such as D.C.'s effort to win a vote in Congress and community meetings related to Fenty's takeover of the public schools.

But Richardson was reassigned in October to an office called Serve DC and asked to create a volunteer program to help the school system. The demotion came after he disagreed with Fenty on several issues and complained that the mayor was not listening enough to stakeholders, government sources said.

For example, Richardson, a former semi-pro soccer player, pushed for Fenty to support building a soccer stadium for D.C. United along the Anacostia River in Ward 8 and expressed unhappiness when the mayor broke off negotiations with the team last summer.

"I was disappointed that an administration that was built on strong populist tendencies has gotten to a place where the council and the public feel left out of decisions," Richardson said today. "I believe this is the opposite of what people had expected and hoped for when our campaign won every precinct in the city."

Richardson also resigned from the administration of former mayor Anthony A. Williams (D), where he held a community organizing post. In May 2005 opinion piece in The Washington Post, Richardson wrote that he was disappointed with Williams's initiative to engage residents.

Richardson becomes the second official to leave the Fenty administration in the past three weeks, following former Attorney General Linda Singer, who resigned because she believed Fenty was listening more often to then-General Counsel Peter Nickles.

Fenty declined through a spokeswoman to comment on Richardson's departure.

12/18/07: The Washington Post - From Soccer Mogul to Downtown Developer

2008-01-23T01:55:00.000-05:00

When D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty last week announced his choice to develop the sprawling, $700 million, mixed-income new community that is supposed to replace some of Washington's most troubled and dangerous housing projects, the named developers were all smiles up at the podium with the mayor.

But hanging back in the rear corner of the church basement where Fenty made his pick public was a tall, elegant fellow who is increasingly a powerful presence in the city's big development schemes. You'll search in vain for the name Victor MacFarlane in the official record of what's going to become Northwest One, the new name for the downtown area where the Sursum Corda and Temple Courts housing projects now stand, between North Capitol Street and New Jersey Avenue NW, just north of K Street.

But MacFarlane was on hand because while the respected Washington developers William C. Smith Cos. and the Jair Lynch Cos. won the sweepstakes to build more than 1,600 units of housing as well as a whole mess of retail and office space, the owner of the DC United soccer team and manager of $15 billion in assets will help finance a significant chunk of the project, according to MacFarlane and some city officials.

Every era of the city's progression has its iconic developer--think of Oliver Carr putting up office boxes in Marion Barry's new K Street of lobbyists and lawyers, or Jeff Cohen making early forays into neighborhood gentrification in deals that got the Barry administration into significant legal trouble, or Doug Jemal preserving historic buildings during the renaissance of the Williams years (Uline Arena, the Avalon Theater, the Seventh Street shops across from the Abe Pollin Arena, the Woodies building, the Sixth and I synagogue.)

Now MacFarlane is positioning himself to be a force for extending the city's development while standing up for the District's black majority. The developer, who is black, has allied himself with neighborhood residents who are wary of development that they believe is inexorably altering the city's racial composition.

Officially, D.C. development director David Jannarone says, MacFarlane is not playing any role in the years-long effort to take down the drug-ridden Sursum Corda project and replace it with a signature initiative of both the Anthony Williams and Adrian Fenty administrations--an all-new neighborhood with housing split between market rate units, partly subsidized apartments for working class residents, and heavily subsidized units for the low-income families who are being displaced.

"I can tell you MacFarlane is not in the deal now," Jannarone says. "Our goal is to get as much local disadvantaged business enterprise money in this deal as possible, and he's not a disadvantaged business enterprise."

No, there's likely not a soul on the planet who would accuse MacFarlane of being disadvantaged.

But MacFarlane is nonetheless deeply involved in this project, and in a fast-increasing number of others around the city. He's in on deals near the new baseball stadium, he's lobbying the city hard to get a soccer stadium built at Poplar Point, the national parkland just across the Anacostia River from the baseball park, and now he's involved downtown too.

"Victor's group is a great source of capital for neighborhood developers," says Jair Lynch, who predicts it will take five to seven years to get the whole Northwest One project built.

The push to redevelop the Sursum Corda area gained meaningful energy after the 2004 murder of Princess Hansen, a seventh grader who was out at three in the morning doing what it took to score drugs. Then-Mayor Williams vowed to clean up the neighborhood, and he promised that Sursum Corda would be replaced not by megabucks condos, but by a mixed-income community that would be safe, modern, attractive, and--for a lucky few hundred families--affordable.

Now, after three difficult years of negotiations with current residents and possible investors, the city and the new development team found themselves agreeing to let Sursum Corda's current management company, Kettler (formerly KSI), in on the deal. Despite widespread complaints that the firm was harassing residents and barring city employees from the property, Kettler will be part of the new development team, largely to buy legal and political peace and get the new project moving.

Is this another example of Fenty's political style in action? The mayor has a knack for cobbling together companies that are otherwise wary competitors, forcing them to work in partnership on big city projects. Does MacFarlane's role in Northwest One mean he's moved on and is out of the picture at Poplar Point? It looks that way, but Fenty says that doesn't at all mean that the District is giving up on keeping the pro soccer team in town.

Despite efforts by Maryland officials to woo the United to that state, Fenty says the District will offer the team alternative spots in the city. "Absolutely there are other sites," he told me. "There may even be ones that the team prefers to Poplar Point."

The mayor wasn't naming other locations, but the prime candidate may turn out to be the place where the mayor hopes to launch his second New Community, replacing another long-troubled housing project: Barry Farms in Southeast, quite close to the Poplar Point park.

And MacFarlane, who just a few weeks ago adamantly and angrily contended that DC United had been completely boxed out of the Poplar Point area, is now humming a different tune. Might the team still end up with a stadium near Poplar Point, I asked. "Absolutely," MacFarlane replied. Stay tuned.

By Marc Fisher | December 18, 2007; 7:06 AM ET

12/13/07: Washington City Paper - Reviewing the Poplar Point Proposals

2008-01-23T01:53:00.000-05:00

Posted by Mike DeBonis on Dec. 13, 2007, at 1:42 pm

Last night, a motley group of businessmen, government types, ministers, and local residents packed into the Birney Elementary gymnasium in Anacostia to witness four developers lay out what they’ve envisioned for Poplar Point—the 130-acre tract on the Anacostia River east of South Capitol Street recently handed over to the District by the federal government.

Each group had 15 minutes to present their plan. They were allowed to have up to two persons do the presentation, and they weren’t allowed to use notes.

The whole exercise was a bit ridiculous, considering that whatever ends up getting built will go through so many approval and review processes, not to mention economic feasibility reviews, that it will likely look little like what hit the PowerPoint screen last night. More than anything, the meeting was a derby between the four developers to see who could ooh-and-aah the crowd the most. What mattered most in that regard: a soccer stadium, which D.C. United owner Victor MacFarlane has apparently successfully sold to Ward 8. Councilmember Marion Barry told the crowd, “We like all four proposals, but we like the one that’ll have a stadium first.”

Keeping that in mind, here’s a rundown:

Archstone-Smith/Madison Marquette: The Archstone Madison posse probably had the best presenter of the night: Calvin Gladney of local outfit Mosaic Urban Partners, who laid out a day at Poplar Point in a cool, well-rehearsed voice. Gladney & Co. promised a “major retail center,” perhaps along the lines of Gallery Place, “where as soon as it’s built people will want to come there.” Other sweeteners: These guys propose to set aside 20 percent of “small shop space” for local businesses and include a concert hall. “Maybe on some occasions Jay-Z would be performing there, or maybe on other occasions, it will be the Ballou High School marching band,” Gladney said. There was also talk of a “job incubator.” The big crowd pleaser, though, was the fact that Archstone included a soccer stadium in the plans. 2.4 million sq. ft. residential, 1.95 million office, 994,000 retail. Ooh-and-Ahh Grade: B+

Clark Realty Capital: These guys, part of the local Clark construction monolith, spent a little bit of time touting their local bona fides before moving on to what was undoubtedly the most ambitious proposal of the evening. The killer feature? The “Deck,” bitches, the “Deck”! That would be a three-block-wide lid over Interstate 295, which would do way more than any of the other proposals to connect Historic Anacostia to Poplar Point and the waterfront. Besides the Deck, there’s four other parts: The residential “Village at Poplar Point,” which would include a grocery store “along the lines of a Whole Foods or Harris Teeter”; the “Metro Soccer District,” which includes, yes, a soccer stadium; the “Preserve,” billed as “A Waterfront Version of New York’s Central Park”; and the “International Environment Center,” a business area billed as a “Silicon Valley for the Environmental Community.” That might include a “National Hall of the Environment,” a museum which would be on the tip of Poplar Point, facing the Capitol. Other things thrown in there: a 1,200-student K-12 KIPP charter school (which got the biggest cheer of the night from the crowd), a theater, and an open-air market. 3.8 million sq. ft. residential, 1.53 million office, 405,000 retail. Ooh-and-Ahh Grade: A

Forest City Washington: These guys blew it hard. FCW chief Deborah Ratner Salzburg got up at the beginning and explained they didn’t become aware of the no-notes, only-two-presenters rule until yesterday afternoon. Hence, Salzburg and a fellow presenter spent way too much time pumping up their own cred in the business community—spending, for instance, a good three minutes running down all the trusted inner-city types they’ve worked with: Al Sharpton, former Denver Mayor Wellington Webb, former Ohio Congressman Louis Stokes (who was in attendance). They only got to their actual plans with about three minutes left in the presentation. About all that the crowd could take away: The plan involves three “fingers” surrounded by parkland. A few pluses for Forest City, though: They had probably the best-looking PowerPoint show (too bad they had to flip through the actual site plans super-quick) and they seemed to be the only ones who made a point of saying their proposal actually reflected what was realistic (hence, no soccer stadium)—even though theirs proposed the largest square footage of development. 4.3 million sq. ft. residential, 1.26 million office, 415,600 retail. Ooh-and-Ahh Grade: C-

General Growth/Mid-City Urban: These folks proposed the smallest amount of square footage (about 3.5 million less than Forest City) but their big thing is education, promising the “largest learning sportsplex” in the D.C. area—bigger than the Prince George’s Sports and Learning Complex near FedExField and bigger than the South Germantown Recreational Park in Montgomery County. There’s also a UDC satellite campus on the premises. And these guys, too, were big on green. “Green technology,” to be specific: “We will bring the Googles. We will bring the Microsofts. We will bring the Sun Microsystems,” said a presenter. As far as cool shit, the big deal was the aerial tram crossing the river. (At one point the presenter mentioned a tram “all the way to Roosevelt Island,” but good luck getting that past the National Capital Planning Commission and the Commission of Fine Arts.) They did have—by a long shot—the most amateur-looking PowerPoint show. But when it comes to the logo wars, these guys were the undisputed champs. Here’s some of the logos that appeared on a single PowerPoint slide: AMC theaters, Best Buy, Bed Bath and Beyond, Dave & Buster’s, the Sharper Image, Chili’s, Cheesecake Factory, Costco, Starbucks, Victoria’s Secret, the Body Shop, Barnes & Noble, Macy’s, TGI Friday’s, Lowe’s, Olive Garden, and Discount Shoe Warehouse. Damn, don’t you feel like shoppin’ already? 2.65 million sq. ft. residential, 250,000 office, 467,000 retail. Ooh-and-Ahh Grade: B

12/13/07: The Washington Business Journal - Developers sketch out competing plans for Poplar Point

2008-01-23T01:43:00.000-05:00

By Jonathan O'Connell

Washington Business Journal
Thursday, December 13, 2007

Jay-Z, Google, a charter school and other attractions were dangled before residents of D.C.'s Ward 8 by four groups vying to develop 130 acres of riverfront property on Poplar Point.

In a room in Birney Elementary School filled with city officials, developers and dozens of local residents, each team took 15 minutes on Dec. 13 to explain its plans for new housing, retail, office space, hotels, entertainment venues, parks and public services.

The city is expected to choose a development team early next year.

The audience at the presentation included Victor MacFarlane, president of the company that owns D.C. United, which is interested in the site for a new stadium. Three of the development groups mentioned a possible soccer stadium.

Other offered attractions included music venues, offices that might draw technology companies and transportation that would better connect Anacostia to the rest of the city.

A team of Archstone Smith -- one of the companies developing the old convention center site -- and Madison Marquette suggested a complex with a central shopping center, which was likened to Gallery Place. The project features 994,000 square feet of retail, more than twice as much as the other teams are offering, and the most office space, 1.9 million square feet. Archstone Smith representative Daniel McCahan said his team was in discussions with a nationally known entertainment venue.

Clark Realty Capital LLC proposed that existing neighborhoods be connected with Poplar Point by building a "deck" over Interstate 295. The Clark proposal also included a center for environmental companies and a museum. The company drew cheers when it talked about building a pre-K through grade 12 school in partnership with KIPP, the network of charter schools that already serves hundreds of Ward 8 children.

Forest City, which is developing The Yards near the Nationals ballpark, said it is in learning more from the community before making firm plans. "This will be what you want it to be," said Alex Nyhan, Forest City development manager and a former official with the deputy mayor's office. The company proposed a set of neighborhoods and parks with street-level retail, a 50,000 square foot floating ampitheater and more housing than the other teams: 4.084 units, including 3 million square feet of condominiums. Nyhan said the Forest City team is seeking 25 percent ownership by companies designated as "local, small, disadvantaged business enterprises."

Mid-City Urban and General Growth Properties proposed a smaller development with more green space and wetlands, along with an extension campus of the University of the District of Columbia. They also offered a promise to make 40 percent the group's 4,700 housing units affordable and half the affordable units available to purchase. Scott Nordheimer of Mid-City Urban touted his company's record in building or rebuilding more than 900 units in Ward 8, including Henson Ridge on Alabama Avenue SE. He also noted that the developer contributed to a resurgence that brought the new Giant Food grocery store to the former Camp Simms site.

The team's presentation lacked any reference to a previously announced partner, Doracon Development. News reports last month in Baltimore, site of Doracon Contracting's headquarters, said the company was being investigated for contracting fraud.

On the issue of the soccer stadium, Clark billed its proposal as an extension of the planning residents had done with MacFarlane Partners before development of Poplar Point was opened to bidding.

"We've tried to continue to build on the work you've done," Clark's Cleve Johnson told the audience.

He said the company's construction arm had built other stadiums, including the Nationals ballpark, and would work to "get a deal done between the District and Mr. MacFarlane, if at all possible."

The Archstone team said its project could be anchored by a soccer stadium or entertainment venue.

Nyhan, of Forest City, said if the District, D.C. United and the community want a soccer stadium, "we will deliver it."

MacFarlane, after seeing all the bids, said in an interview that he liked Clark's plan because of the density it offered but also liked aspects of Archstone Smith's.

He said the time to partner with one the development teams was now, not after the city chooses, "so we can cut off looking at other places" that have been "very welcoming."

Councilman Marion Barry, D-Ward 8, made clear that a soccer stadium was still a top priority for him, rallying the crowd to repeat the words "soccer stadium" upon his arrival. In an interview afterward, he said the only two plans he would consider were Clark's and Archstone Smith's.

"As far as I'm concerned, it's down to two," Barry said.

The three-hour meeting ended with James Bunn of the Ward 8 Business Council and others yelling at the developers for offering jobs and training to residents, but not equity in the project, which the development teams disputed.

Correction:
An earlier version of this story misstated the role of Mid-City Urban in the development of the Giant Food grocery store at the former Camp Sims site.

12/13/07: The Washington Post - Visions of Vibrancy: Designs for Anacostia Combine Community, Commerce

2008-01-23T01:39:00.000-05:00

Designs for Anacostia Combine Community, Commerce

By David Nakamura

Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, December 13, 2007; Page B01

An aerial tram carries tourists over the Anacostia River to the Washington Nationals' new baseball stadium. Waterside amphitheaters and a museum provide cultural entertainment. A cluster of companies focused on the environment creates an international business hub.

And a sports and learning center, a charter school and an extension campus for the University of the District of Columbia offer new opportunities for students.
This was how officials from four development companies described their visions for Poplar Point, a 110-acre strip of parkland in Ward 8 that could become one of Washington's hottest neighborhoods.

The firms are competing for the right to partner with Mayor Adrian M. Fenty's administration to develop the land. During a two-hour public meeting last night at Birney Elementary School, mayoral aides and company officials described a vibrant new community featuring condos, offices, big-box retailers, a movie theater, a grocery store and a hotel.

Fenty (D) has called Poplar Point a rare opportunity to spread economic development to a neglected ward and create a regional entertainment center. No matter which firm is selected, however, the development will take years because the city must remediate the land and relocate the National Park Service, whose headquarters is on the property.

Valerie Santos Young, chief operating officer for Fenty's economic development office, said the administration is pleased with the results of the bidding.

"We think there are elements of each proposal that are very creative," she said.

A standing-room-only crowd packed the Birney auditorium to hear the proposals, and D.C. council member Marion Barry (D-Ward 8), addressing those gathered, said, "We want retail, we want housing that is affordable and we want a stadium."

The proposals offered Ward 8 residents their first glimpse of alternatives to plans from D.C. United owner Victor B. MacFarlane, who has lobbied the city to build 8 million square feet of mixed-use development anchored by a 27,000-seat soccer stadium. Last summer, Fenty halted the negotiations, saying MacFarlane's plan, which required $350 million in public subsidies, was too expensive.

After Fenty opened the bidding process to find a "master developer," MacFarlane chose not to enter and threatened to move the soccer team to the suburbs. Two of the four plans unveiled last night-- from Clark Realty Capital and a joint venture from Archstone Smith and Madison Marquette -- make room for a soccer stadium, and in both cases the complex is optional.

"The decision making is out of our hands," Julie Chase, MacFarlane's spokeswoman, said yesterday.

Each proposal features 4 million to 6 million square feet of development and includes the 70 acres of parkland required by the federal government, which is in the process of transferring control of Poplar Point to the District. Rounding out the bidders are Forest City and a joint effort from General Growth, Mid-City Urban and Doracon.

Each plan probably would require tens of millions of dollars in public subsidies, but city officials declined to disclose the financial terms because the proposals are preliminary. Fenty's office hopes to select a master developer by next month.

The administration asked developers to present ideas that connected Ward 8 neighborhoods such as Anacostia and Barry Farm to the riverfront and took advantage of environmental planning underway to clean up the river.
Clark Realty Capital took a unique approach to the first charge, proposing to build a "deck" the size of three city blocks over Interstate 295 that would allow residents to walk or drive from one side of the highway to the other. The platform would be landscaped and have shops and offices built on top.

"There's a wall separating the community from its most valuable assets, and that's I-295," said Bereket Selassie, a development executive at Clark. "We have eliminated that barrier."

Clark also proposed creating a cluster of buildings near the waterfront meant to lure companies dedicated to the environment, Selassie said.

The proposal from General Growth, Mid-City Urban and Doracon focuses largely on education, featuring an extension campus for UDC and a sports and learning complex similar to the one in Prince George's County, said Lyneir Richardson, a vice president for General Growth. The company also proposes an aerial tram that would carry passengers across the river to the new baseball stadium.

"We wanted to do something visionary and cool," Richardson said. He noted that the company, which proposes 2.65 million square feet of housing, has committed to making 40 percent of the units available for lower-income residents. Although each proposal featured retail -- Ward 8 residents have called for years for more shopping options -- the Archstone Smith/Madison Marquette offering was by far the most ambitious. They proposed big-box stores as part of almost 1 million square feet of retail, more than twice the amount proposed by the other firms. Archstone representatives stressed that they would reserve 20 percent of the retail space for area merchants.

Forest City took the most unique route to incorporating parkland, focusing on weaving the 70 acres into the rest of the development in a "park fingers" design, or one in which park areas are spread like fingers on a hand. The company also proposed more than 3 million square feet of condos -- about 1 million more than other firms.

"Because the park is over 70 acres, we wanted to enliven it by creating a varied series of spaces like Central Park in Manhattan," Alex Nyhan, a development manager for the company, wrote in an e-mail.

11/29/07: The Washington Post - Would They Call It P.G. United?

2008-01-23T01:37:00.000-05:00

By Rosalind S. Helderman and Valerie Strauss

Washington Post Staff Writers
Thursday, November 29, 2007; Page DZ01

And now, representing the Washington region in Major League Soccer, it's your Prince George's United!

Fans of the storied D.C. United soccer franchise, winner of four league titles, might protest such an announcement. But it looks as though team owner Victor B. MacFarlane is following through on his pledge to explore other locations in case his bid to build a stadium in the District falls through.
David Byrd, a high-ranking Prince George's County official, told The Washington Post last week that MacFarlane has expressed interest in sites in Greenbelt and New Carrollton, where the team had looked a few years ago. Both of those areas are Metro-accessible and have land sufficient to accommodate a mixed-use development anchored by a stadium, Byrd said.

MacFarlane has met with Prince George's County Executive Jack B. Johnson (D) to discuss the matter, according to two sources who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the negotiations are preliminary. United plays at 46-year-old RFK Stadium, where MacFarlane has said the franchise is losing $10 million a season.

"I've been told he's looking very closely" at Prince George's, Byrd said. "We hope that Victor MacFarlane feels Prince George's County is a great place for the team."

Prince George's also has a large Latino community, which has made up a sizable portion of United's fan base, Byrd noted. He declined to disclose what economic incentives the county might offer the team.

Last summer, Mayor Adrian M. Fenty (D) halted negotiations with MacFarlane over the team's proposal to build a 27,000-seat stadium and other development at Poplar Point, parkland along the Anacostia River in Ward 8. The Fenty administration is considering four alternative proposals for Poplar Point, not all of which would include a stadium, and will present them to the public in about two weeks.

11/22/07: The Washington Post - Three Eliminated In Fight for Poplar Point Bid

2008-01-23T01:34:00.000-05:00

KWAME R. BROWN (Courtesy Of Kwame Brown)

By Nikita Stewart and David Nakamura

Washington Post Staff Writers
Thursday, November 22, 2007; Page DZ01

Well, that was fast.

Two weeks after receiving seven bids from companies hoping to develop Poplar Point, a swath of more than 110 acres of parkland along the Anacostia River, D.C. planners have narrowed the field to four.

Last week Neil O. Albert, the deputy mayor for economic development, announced the shortlist: a joint venture from Archstone-Smith and Madison Marquette; Clark Realty Capital; Forest City Enterprises; and a joint venture of General Growth Properties, Mid-City Urban and Doracon.

D.C. United has proposed building a soccer stadium, along with mixed-use development, at Poplar Point, but Mayor Adrian M. Fenty (D) broke off negotiations with the team in the summer. United officials have threatened to relocate to the suburbs if they are unable to get a new stadium in the city.

D.C. officials have said a stadium is still possible, along with housing, offices, shops and park space. The companies will be asked to present their proposals to the public next week, officials said.

The three companies that have been eliminated from the competition are City Interests, Urban City Ventures and Capital Area Regional Center Job Fund.

11/19/07: The Washington Post - Site Search Continues

2008-01-23T01:31:00.000-05:00

By Steven Goff

Washington Post Staff Writer
Monday, November 19, 2007; Page E08

United President Kevin Payne said the club continues to keep its options open in search of a site for a new stadium.

"Time is a very important consideration for us, and as such, it's going to be a big role in our decision," he said. "Whoever can come up with the right location, the right economic deal and the appropriate political will to make it happen, that's where we are going to go."

At least five banners were on display during MLS Cup at RFK Stadium expressing support for the club's proposal to build a stadium in the District. . . .

11/9/07: The Washington Post - Calling In The Ward 8 Cavalry

2008-01-23T01:29:00.000-05:00

By David Nakamura and Nikita Stewart

Washington Post Staff Writers
Thursday, November 8, 2007; Page DZ01

Mayor Adrian M. Fenty has a new hired gun to help him maintain support in Ward 8, where residents have complained that he's moving too slowly on a plan to build a soccer stadium at Poplar Point, 110 acres along the Anacostia River.

The Fenty administration hired Phinis Jones, a longtime resident with deep ties to influential Ward 8 leaders, about three weeks ago to do "community outreach" on Poplar Point. In this case, that might be a euphemism for "damage control."
Ward 8 leaders have been increasingly vocal in their support for D.C. United's plan to build a stadium as an anchor to mixed-use development. But Fenty (D) broke off talks with United over the summer and launched a formal process to solicit alternative proposals.

Since then, D.C. Council member Marion Barry (D-Ward 8) has beaten up on Fenty during community meetings, calling him and his aides "nice people who don't know what they're doing." Now, Fenty is fighting back in the form of Jones, who has lived in Ward 8 for 38 years.

Jones, who referred requests for comment to the Fenty administration, has a long history in city politics. In 1995, Barry nominated Jones to head construction of the city's convention center, but Jones was forced to withdraw after being tied to a scandal involving a businessman who renovated Barry's home.

More recently, Jones served as Fenty's campaign coordinator for Ward 8, helping him in his historic sweep of every precinct last year.

At a recent meeting of the Anacostia Coordinating Council, Jones told the audience that his role is to inform the public about the process at Poplar Point and to bring their input back to the mayor. He seemed particularly eager to temper expectations about the development's timetable.

Poplar Point is owned by the federal government, which has agreed to transfer control to the District. But the process will take years, including significant environmental study and remediation, he noted. Development on the property probably will begin no sooner than 2011, Jones said, to the dismay of many in the audience.

During the question-and-answer session, as residents expressed frustration with the Fenty administration, Jones did his best to parry the blows, occasionally reminding audience members that like them he lives in Ward 8. To Barry, Jones's performance made clear why Fenty hired him.

"He wanted to shut me up," Barry said of the mayor. "But I told Phinis, 'Don't do anything to undercut the will of this community.' "

Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development Neil O. Albert scoffed when told of Barry's comments. "We wanted somebody who understood the ward," Albert said of Jones.

11/4/07: The Washington Post - Ward 8 Area Seeing Few Results From Fenty, Some Residents Say

2008-01-23T01:12:00.000-05:00

Fenty's Cabinet visited Parkway Overlook Apartments in January to show commitment to Southeast Washington. The building has since gone into foreclosure. (By Susan Biddle -- The Washington Post)

By David Nakamura
Washington Post Staff Writer
Sunday, November 4, 2007; Page A01

Six days after Adrian M. Fenty became mayor of the District, he took his Cabinet on a tour of a dilapidated, violence-plagued apartment complex in Ward 8 in Southeast Washington. Strolling around the block, he promised curious onlookers that he would not forget them.

It was the first of Fenty's numerous visits to the city's poorest ward, a strategy aimed at avoiding the pitfalls of his predecessor, Anthony A. Williams, who oversaw a downtown renaissance but was mocked in neighborhoods east of the Anacostia River, where services lagged.

But as Fenty (D) nears the end of his first year in office, a growing impatience for more tangible development in Ward 8 is testing his pledge to create a government that serves all communities equitably and bridges the economic divide that grew during the past decade.

Led by D.C. Council member Marion Barry (D-Ward 8), community leaders contend that Fenty has used their neighborhoods as a political backdrop but failed to follow up his rhetoric with action. Although the mayor titled his State of the District address "Moving Forward Faster" and delivered it at a Ward 8 senior center, residents worry that the ward never made it onto Fenty's fast track.

Theresa Howe-Jones, an advisory neighborhood commissioner, said she has watched the mayor respond quickly to rebuild the Georgetown Library and Eastern Market after fires and demand that fire hydrants in Adams Morgan be tested. But she wonders why her long-standing concerns about hydrants in Southeast have gone unaddressed.

"They had the attention placed on them, but none is placed on us out here," she said. "It's all right to come out here and make an announcement, but when it comes to implementing an idea or issue and you don't do it, that sends a signal that you don't want to do it in the first place."

The flash point for many residents' frustration was Fenty's decision this summer to break off negotiations with D.C. United over a proposal to build a soccer stadium that would anchor a massive mixed-use project on 110 acres of parkland along the Anacostia known as Poplar Point. After three years of meetings with government officials, ward leaders said they had reached consensus on United's plan, which includes housing, offices and stores, only to be blindsided when Fenty reopened the process. During the same period, the Nationals' new baseball stadium has been nearly completed on the other side of the river.

Residents had begun to envision Poplar Point as a catalyst for a commercial revitalization of the area the way Verizon Center helped transform Seventh Street. Because they have waited years for long-promised development, some are running out of patience.

"It caught me off guard. I thought we were moving ahead, but then it seemed like everything stopped," said David Smith, who lives in Ward 8 and runs a youth outreach program there. "We don't have time to wait. We need expediency."

Jackie Ward, an advisory neighborhood commissioner, said that three days before Fenty suspended talks with United in July, the mayor told an audience at Union Temple Baptist Church that he would support the stadium.

"He said it seems to be the will of the people and he will go along with what the people want," Ward said.

Barry, who served four terms as mayor, has held several meetings during which he has urged residents not to allow Fenty to make decisions without their input.

"The community in this ward has been neglected and disrespected and, as a result, there's a lot of skepticism and distrust of government in general," Barry said. "The mayor has to go over and beyond just talking about his intentions. Those other things are wonderful, but where's the beef?"

As mayor, Fenty has been moving forward with an ambitious agenda, including taking over the D.C. public schools and remaking the police department. But he said a city cannot thrive unless all residents feel they are being treated equitably.
"The people of Ward 8 deserve excellent services from the government, as I feel all seven other wards do," Fenty said. "If just one area is getting the focus, that's not a great city."

Fenty aides point out that the mayor and D.C. Council recently agreed to invest $79 million to help prop up financially troubled Greater Southeast Community Hospital in Ward 8, the only hospital east of the river. And Neil O. Albert, deputy mayor for economic development, said that 20 projects are underway in the ward.

The ward's first grocery store, a Giant, will open next month, and 1,100 housing units are under construction, Albert said. The city also is trying to persuade Metro to move its headquarters from downtown to a proposed building atop the Anacostia Station, he added.

Those projects, however, were started under the Williams administration, and they have done little to pacify ward leaders. To them, Poplar Point has become the gold standard, the only project with the scope to make the ward a regionwide attraction.

"There's not a lot of major projects taking place east of river, so this becomes a one-size-fits-all dream for many of the people," said Eugene Kinlow, a Ward 8 resident who works for D.C. Vote and whose wife, Tonya, was recently hired by Fenty to be the school system's first ombudsman.

Fenty said he wants to find the best proposal possible for Poplar Point, adding that competition will breed creativity and give the city a better bargaining hand. Seven companies responded to the mayor's call for proposals by Friday's deadline; only two included a stadium. D.C. United did not enter the contest.

To many ward leaders, Fenty's decision to seek other proposals renewed their skepticism about whether the mayor values their views. Fenty has had difficulty escaping complaints in the ward that he has failed to appoint anyone who lives east of the Anacostia among his top Cabinet advisers, a criticism that also dogged Williams.

Rumors circulated in the ward that Fenty already had a favored developer in mind for Poplar Point when he opened the competitive bidding process.

"Who is better than this community to decide what land on this side of the river should be used for? We are not an ignorant people," former D.C. Council member Arrington Dixon said during a recent discussion of Poplar Point at an Anacostia Coordinating Council meeting. "I'm troubled. What's going on here?"

Fenty aides dismiss the suggestion that the competition is rigged. Administration officials contend that most of the opposition to Fenty is limited to Barry allies eager to ensure that Fenty does not overshadow the council member, who faces a reelection campaign next year. Some residents agree with the mayor.

"A lot of people I talk to on a regular basis don't agree with the councilman. They tend to agree with the approach of the competitive bid process," said Dameon Proctor, 30, an information technology consultant who bought a house in the ward two years ago. "As long as the mayor pays just as much attention to Ward 8 as he does to every ward, he'll win our confidence."

Charles E. Wilson, 31, who also bought his home two years ago, said Fenty will prove justified as long as he selects a development that succeeds in providing services to residents.
"Whatever is built there, we'll have to live with it for the next 30 years," said Wilson, founder of the Historic Anacostia Block Association, a civic group. "It's important to get it right."

But to Jackie Ward, the neighborhood leader, Fenty has not lived up to the promises implicit with his appearances. As an example, she pointed to Fenty's Cabinet field trip to the Parkway Overlook Apartments during the first week of his administration.

Since the visit, the complex has lost its federal low-income housing subsidy, forcing the owner to default. The D.C. Housing Finance Agency foreclosed on the property in the spring, and the 256 families who lived there are being relocated, said agency director Harry Sewell.

Patrice Taylor, who has lived at the complex with her two children since early last year, said she has yet to find a new home. "If I can find a better life, that's good," she said. "But they're not doing a good job helping people move out."

Albert said his office has worked hard to ensure that residents have a smooth transition. The city plans to reopen the building after finding a new owner, he said, adding that some of the units will be reserved for affordable housing.

But Ward said she is disappointed with the mayor's performance.

"That is not the kind of impact I was looking for," she said.

11/3/07: The Washington Post - Seven Developers Submit Plans for Poplar Point

2008-01-23T01:06:00.000-05:00

Two Proposals Include a Soccer Stadium; D.C. United Did Not Participate In Competition

Talks between the city and D.C. United principal owner Victor B. MacFarlane over building a stadium fell through last summer. (By Joel Richardson -- The Washington Post)

By David Nakamura
Washington Post Staff Writer
Saturday, November 3, 2007; Page B05

The D.C. government has received seven proposals from companies seeking to develop a 110-acre parcel along the Anacostia River, but none is from D.C. United, which has lobbied to build a stadium on the site.

Mayor Adrian M. Fenty (D) had set yesterday as the deadline for a formal competition for the right to develop the swath of barren parkland in Southeast Washington known as Poplar Point. The seven firms proposed a mix of housing, retail, offices and a hotel, along with the 70-acre park mandated by the federal government, a D.C. government official said.

Two of the firms proposed including a soccer stadium; both made the facility optional, said the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the selection process is ongoing. The official declined to identify which firms included a stadium in their proposals.

Several of the companies have strong local ties.

Archstone Smith, which is teaming with Madison Marquette, is a partner on redeveloping the old convention center site in downtown Washington. Clark Realty Capital, whose construction arm is building the Nationals' new baseball stadium, is based in Bethesda and has done projects in Fairfax County. Forest City Enterprises recently launched work on the Yards, one of the largest developments underway along the west side of the Anacostia River. And Mid-City Urban, partnering with General Growth and Doracon, is involved with developing the Capper/Carrollsburg mixed affordable housing complex in the District.

The other entrants are: City Interests, Urban City Ventures and Capital Area Regional Center Jobs Funds.

"We're very pleased with the responses we've gotten so far," said Sean Madigan, spokesman for Neil O. Albert, D.C. deputy mayor for economic development. "We marketed this as one of the last great urban waterfront projects, and the response really validates our vision."

D.C. United principal owner Victor B. MacFarlane had been negotiating informally with the city to build a 27,000-seat stadium, along with a mix of housing, offices and shops.

But Fenty pulled out of the talks in the summer and launched the competitive bidding process. Administration officials have called MacFarlane's plan too costly for the city, which was asked to pay for infrastructure.

MacFarlane has threatened to move the team to the suburbs if he fails to find a site for a stadium in the District.

Madigan said the city will ask developers to present their plans to the public after Nov. 26, and Fenty expects to select a developer by the end of December.

10/21/07: The Washington Post - Not United On A Stadium

2008-01-23T01:02:00.000-05:00

District officials would be wise to take seriously competition from the state of Maryland in providing D.C. United a suitable site for a new 27,000-seat soccer stadium.

With negotiations between the D.C. government and United at a standstill, Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot proposed last week that the state try to attract the four-time MLS champions.

United's owner, Victor B. MacFarlane, has offered to pay for the new stadium at a cost of between $150 million and $200 million. In return, MacFarlane wants the city to spend $350 million on infrastructure costs, as well as giving him the right to develop 8 million square feet around the stadium's site at Poplar Point -- not that far from the new baseball stadium.

One government source told me he believes the city and United will cut a deal. But suburban venues have become common nesting spots for other MLS teams -- a fact Mayor Adrian M. Fenty should recognize.

United currently plays at aging RFK Stadium -- site of next month's MLS Cup and host to many big-time soccer events during the 33 years Major League Baseball avoided Washington. The team has a strong and diverse following, and the sport continues to grow in popularity.
United's success over the years should spur the mayor to move swiftly. Or else the city could lose the team, as it lost the Redskins slightly more than 10 years ago when the late owner, Jack Kent Cooke, became so frustrated with the D.C. bureaucracy he built a stadium in Landover.

Ten years later we follow behind-the-scenes activity reportedly occuring among city and Redskins intermediaries to bring the team back to D.C. or on the RFK site in a 95,000-seat retractable roof stadium. The Redskins deny such a plan exists and D.C. officials aren't talking much. But who knows what lurks in the mind of Redskins owner Daniel Snyder?

10/21/07: The Washington Post - Residents Urge Fenty To Build Soccer Stadium At Poplar Point

2008-01-23T00:26:00.001-05:00

Those interested in developing Poplar Point in Southeast Washington must submit proposals to the mayor by Nov. 2. (By Alexandra Garcia -- Washingtonpost.com)

By David Nakamura

Washington Post Staff Writer
Sunday, October 21, 2007; Page C06

District residents who live east of the Anacostia River demanded yesterday that Mayor Adrian M. Fenty support D.C. United's plan to build a soccer stadium in their community, saying the project would stimulate economic growth in a neglected part of the city.

At a public hearing held by D.C. Council members at Thurgood Marshall Academy charter school, residents, one after another, testified in favor of United's proposal to build a 27,000-seat stadium and mixed-use development at Poplar Point, a 110-acre strip of parkland along the river in Ward 8.

"Our people are crying for support, asking for help. United has come in and helped our youth. Where is the recognition for that?" asked Dorothy Douglas, an advisory neighborhood commissioner who grew up near the proposed site. "This is an opportunity for the mayor to step up to the plate. Mayor Adrian Fenty, you have to look at the future, the future of young kids and senior citizens and Ward 8. They deserve this."

The show of support -- roughly 80 people attended the hearing, most in favor of the stadium -- ramped up pressure on the mayor. Fenty (D) had been informally negotiating with United principal partner Victor B. MacFarlane for months before breaking off talks during the summer and opening a competitive bidding process to solicit other proposals.

United officials, in return, threatened to move to Virginia or Maryland. Last week, Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot (D) publicly urged state officials to pursue the franchise.

James Bunn, executive director of the Ward 8 Business Council, noted the potential tax revenue generated by a stadium and pleaded, "We should do everything we can to ensure we do not lose this team to the state of Maryland."

Fenty did not attend the hearing, organized by Kwame R. Brown (D-At Large), chairman of the council's Committee on Economic Development. Valerie Santos Young, chief operating officer for the mayor's economic development office, tried to alleviate residents' concerns by emphasizing that the administration remains open to a stadium.

"Poplar Point might be an excellent place for a stadium," she said. "But, again, we want to make sure that we examine all the options, capture all the great ideas that are out there, before committing to anything."

The Poplar Point site, across the Anacostia from the Nationals' new baseball stadium, is now owned by the federal government but is being transferred to District control. Under the competitive process designed by Fenty, developers interested in the site must submit proposals to the mayor's office by Nov. 2.

Although the administration hopes to select a "master developer" by January, officials said the city can select a developer whether or not the developer participates in the formal process.

A 37-page document, "Request for Expressions of Interest," lays out basic qualifications each development team must meet, such as showing that it has completed successful waterfront projects similar in scope.

But the document is vague about what types of development the city is seeking.

The document stipulates only that 70 acres must be reserved for a park -- a requirement established by the federal government -- and that small, local businesses must receive 35 percent of contracting dollars. Fenty also has said 30 percent of any new housing must be affordable for lower-income residents.

City planning officials said they were deliberately vague to encourage creative, "outside-the-box" thinking. But residents said yesterday that Fenty has ignored years of planning undertaken by his predecessor, former mayor Anthony A. Williams (D).

In 2003, Williams created the Anacostia Waterfront Corp., a quasi-independent government agency that held dozens of community meetings and established a framework plan that included a stadium, up to 900,000 square feet of retail space, 800 hotel rooms and 3,000 housing units, as well as the 70-acre park.

But Fenty disbanded the agency and took control of the Poplar Point planning, a point of contention for some residents.

"D.C. United has been in the community for quite a while now working with the community," said Sandra Seegars, an advisory neighborhood commissioner in Ward 8. "The new mayor comes in and takes us back to step one. We don't need to start over again."

Under MacFarlane's plan, total development would reach 8.5 million square feet -- twice the amount of space envisioned by the Anacostia Waterfront Corp. MacFarlane offered to pay for the stadium, expected to cost from $150 million to $200 million, if the city would contribute $350 million in infrastructure for the development project.

Council member Marion Barry (D-Ward 8), who supports MacFarlane, told the audience yesterday that Fenty and his aides "are nice people, but they don't know what they're doing."

Percy Battle, who has lived in Ward 8 more than 70 years, said he believes a stadium would be a catalyst for the kind of additional development his community desperately needs.

"While much of the District has experienced unprecedented economic development, Anacostia has been left in the dust," Battle said. "Over the years, we have lost much in the way of everyday services: restaurants, grocery stores, movie theaters, hardware stores -- the list goes on and on."

10/17/07: The Washington Post - Kicked to the Curb: Soccer Stadium Blues

2008-01-23T00:23:00.000-05:00

Victor MacFarlane makes no secret of his dismay. The wealthy developer who bought the D.C. United soccer team and devoted a couple of years of his life to building a soccer stadium and residential-retail development in Southeast Washington feels double-crossed.

After all, it was the D.C. government that came to him a few years ago and asked him to plan and build a soccer stadium at Poplar Point, the picturesque spot where the Anacostia River and Washington Channel come together. But that was a different administration, a mayor--Tony Williams--who loved the big deal, the dramatic gesture, who fancied himself a master builder. Now, there's a new guy in charge, and Adrian Fenty came to office as the dynamo who focuses on the little stuff, the neighborhood concerns. Fenty was the guy who opposed the city's new baseball stadium every step of the way.

So while it came as a big surprise to MacFarlane when Fenty pulled the plug on the cozy sole-source deal that the developer had been talking about with the Williams staff, it was actually entirely in keeping with Fenty's approach to governing. Under tremendous pressure from neighborhood groups to pull back on the practice of making sweetheart deals with developers, Fenty has opened the Poplar Point development process to any and all, and the District is now fielding proposals from various parties.

MacFarlane says D.C. United won't be one of those parties. The city's new concept of the size and scope of the development precludes the deal that MacFarlane spent years working out, and the developer says he's out. Except that maybe he's in: Moments after telling a meeting of Washington Post editors and reporters that he won't participate in the mayor's competition to get the development rights for Poplar Point, MacFarlane says that he may well team up with another developer to put in a proposal.

That's not the only contradiction in MacFarlane's current position. He is appalled and frustrated by the Fenty administration's actions, yet he still says he wants to and can work with the mayor's people to get a stadium done. MacFarlane has hired a consultant to identify suburban sites for a soccer field--and Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot wants the state to make a good offer--yet MacFarlane says he is resolutely an urban developer and he above all wants to keep the team in the District.

"Our name is D.C. United," says team president Kevin Payne.

On one hand, the MacFarlane team says that they've looked at every possible stadium site in the District and have concluded, as Major League Baseball did, that they are all severely flawed. On the other hand, MacFarlane says he's open to building a soccer stadium on the grounds of the RFK Stadium complex--even if Redskins owner Dan Snyder decides to build a new football stadium at the same place. "There's enough land there that both stadiums could be built," MacFarlane says, and he's obviously looked into that possibility.

(Amazingly, the D.C. Armory site adjacent to RFK is considered off-limits for new construction because the Armory, a vile pit of a building that begs to be blown to smithereens, is landmarked as a historic structure--yet another example of the city's willy-nilly preservation mania.)

The developer's frustration is understandable. He came into the city, bought a team that doesn't make money, and volunteered to pay for a stadium--putting him in the category of sports owner as good citizen, like Abe Pollin, rather than sports owner as hard-charging dealmaker, like Major League Baseball. For his troubles, MacFarlane gets a boatload of uncertainty and a hobbled relationship with the mayor.

But from Fenty's perspective, there are two issues at work that trump the desire for a permanent home for the soccer team: 1) The mayor wants to show his supporters among the various neighborhood groups around town that he is operating above board and is opening development opportunities to all, not just to a hand-picked, sole-sourced rich builder. 2) Fenty is under significant pressure from environmentalists--another important piece of the coalition that elected him--to reserve far more of the Poplar Point site as parkland than MacFarlane or Williams had originally planned for.

"They want less density, less dollars, less profit and more parkland," MacFarlane says of the city's new course on Poplar Point. After he spent years planning for an 80-acre development on a 150-acre site, the builder is now being told to come up with plans for a 40-acre development on a 110-acre site.

So MacFarlane is playing the age-old sports owners' game of threatening to move. Except that he's too honest and straightforward to play the game right. So he's talking to suburban governments that would be thrilled to have United call them home, even as MacFarlane still sings a love song to the big city. And he has forsworn the notion of moving his team to another metro area entirely.

MacFarlane has become a darling of many Ward 8 activists, including council member Marion Barry. But while the developer has done admirable work persuading the community of the value his project could bring to Anacostia, he has neglected to work the council and Fenty administration with the same verve and conciliatory manner. Some D.C. council members still don't see much value in a soccer stadium--even one built largely with private money. One big stadium project is more than enough for them (though we all know how fast they'd come running if Snyder were to announce he's ready to come home to Washington.)

"We're going to get a stadium," Payne says, and of that there can be little doubt. The District would be smart to embrace MacFarlane and assure him that a site for a stadium will be part of the Poplar Point plan--though there's no particular reason the stadium has to be on what is now federal parkland. There's plenty of privately-owned--and city-owned--empty land immediately adjacent to the park.

Despite MacFarlane's bluster, he's a dealer, and when the time comes for him to work together with whatever other developers win the right to take on the Poplar Point project, MacFarlane will be ready to do business. What you're hearing from him now is an effort to hold onto as much of the overall project as he can keep for himself. But just as he is working nicely with other developers on his projects near the baseball stadium, he'll do the same for his soccer field. The rest is just tactics.
By Marc Fisher | October 17, 2007; 7:40 AM ET

10/17/07: The Washington Post - Md. Comes Courting in D.C. United's Stadium Search

2008-01-23T00:11:00.000-05:00

State Comptroller Meets With Team Executives After Their Talks With Fenty Stall

Comptroller Peter Franchot has asked the Maryland Stadium Authority to meet with United officials. (Kevin Clark - Twp)

By David Nakamura
Washington Post Staff Writer
Wednesday, October 17, 2007; Page B01

A leading Maryland official began a public push yesterday to lure D.C. United, calling on the state to find a site for a new soccer stadium. The announcement prompted District government leaders to say they will fight to keep the team in the city.

In a letter to Maryland Stadium Authority Chairman Frederick W. Puddester, Comptroller Peter Franchot said United's negotiations with D.C. Mayor Adrian M. Fenty (D) to build a 27,000-seat stadium in the city have stalled.

"I would strongly urge the Maryland Stadium Authority to meet with representatives from the United to learn more about its proposal and explore potential opportunities to bring this great franchise to the State of Maryland," Franchot wrote.

He said a stadium "would attract fans and tourists from throughout the region. . . . The enormous tax revenues generated on game nights alone would provide an enormous benefit."

The letter comes less than a week after United principal partner Victor B. MacFarlane said he has hired consultants to examine potential stadium sites in Maryland and Virginia. Franchot met with MacFarlane and United President Kevin Payne yesterday afternoon to reiterate his interest.

But several D.C. Council members, including Chairman Vincent C. Gray (D), also met with United officials yesterday and pledged to work with the franchise to find a new home in the District.

"That puts us all on notice that they are seriously looking," Gray said of Franchot's letter. "We had to know that was going to happen with the situation they are in."

United officials had been informally negotiating for months with the Fenty administration to build a stadium and mixed-use development at Poplar Point, a 110-acre strip of parkland along the Anacostia River. But the mayor broke off talks during the summer and opened a competitive bidding process to solicit other proposals for the site.

MacFarlane, who bought the team with a partner in January, said last week that it is increasingly unlikely that he will be able to enter the competition because United cannot meet the economic parameters set by the city.

Julie Chase, MacFarlane's spokeswoman, played down the impact of Franchot's letter.

"We're happy to have the support," she said. "But we're a ways down the road" from a plan to move.

Still, Franchot's interest privately rekindled talk among some Maryland officials of United's interest four years ago in two locations in College Park.

Puddester, who has been in his post at the Maryland Stadium Authority for 2 1/2 months, said yesterday that he has not spoken with United since the spring. But Puddester said he has been in touch with the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development, which he said has talked more recently with the team.

Fenty administration officials said they remain open to working with United to find a suitable new home in the city. The team plays at 46-year-old RFK Stadium.

Under his initial proposal, MacFarlane offered to pay for the stadium, estimated to cost between $150 million and $200 million, if the city allowed him to develop 8 million square feet at Poplar Point. MacFarlane also has asked the city to contribute $350 million in infrastructure for the overall development project.

But under the terms of the competitive bidding process established by Fenty, developers have been asked to submit proposals that limit development to about 4 million square feet. Bids are due Nov. 2.

"DC United has told us they would explore their options both inside and outside the District and they've also told us they are still working with a developer to possibly submit a proposal for Poplar Point," Neil O. Albert, deputy mayor for economic development, said in a statement.

Council members Jack Evans (D-Ward 2), who is chairman of the Committee on Finance and Revenue, and Marion Barry (D-Ward 8), who represents the area where Poplar Point is located, said yesterday that they support MacFarlane.

"I don't blame Maryland for trying to get" United, Barry said. "They've got more sense than the Fenty administration does."

Staff writer Steven Goff contributed to this report.

10/11/07: The Washington Post - MacFarlane Speaks

2008-01-23T00:05:00.000-05:00

D.C. United bossman Victor MacFarlane and Prez Kevin Payne stopped by The Post this afternoon for an on-the-record chat with reporters, editors and a Metro section columnist. The meeting was arranged weeks ago, but in the wake of their letter to the city about the club's plans to look elsewhere in pursuit of a stadium project, the timing could not have been better.

Lots of interesting comments. Lots of frustration with Fenty and the city. You could almost see the steam coming from MacFarlane's ears.

There will be a comprehensive Metro section news story in Friday's print editions (available on washingtonpost.com late tonight), but for now......

WP: Is there still a chance you could end up with a stadium at Poplar Point?

MacFarlane: We still have a developer who has said they want to include a soccer stadium. We have told them what our minimum requirements are and we'll see.

WP: Where else are you looking to build a stadium?

VM: We have engaged with a consultant to find all the sites that are appropriate for a soccer stadium in and outside the District.

WP: How disappointing is it for you to reach this point?

VM: Oh, it's extremely disappointing. I am still hopeful we will be in the District. We will see. I am less optimistic about Poplar Point. I am sure one or two [alternate sites in the District] will show up.

WP: The RFK grounds?

VM: They may be. We don't know yet. We just left the deputy mayor's office [today] talking about, hoping that, there will be alternative sites.

WP: Do you feel like the Fenty administration betrayed you?

VM: It doesn't even matter anymore. I'll just leave it as I am disappointed. ... We spent millions of dollars; we don't have a history of being foolish, but maybe that's what we proved to be this time. ... As the owner of the soccer team, we need to know that the land that they offer us -- if it's not going to be Poplar Point, if there is going to be another alternative site -- that it's a site that we can have. Not maybe we can have after a process. As a business person, it makes no sense. If the city really wants us here, they have to tell us: 'Yes, this site is available to you, let's see if it works.' If there is not a site that is for certain available to us, then we need to find one that is.

jump below for more.....

WP: What did you discuss with city officials today?

VM: We talked about how we would like an alternative site in the District, that we would like a new lease at RFK and one extended beyond this year. They said they are supportive.

WP: Kevin, a few years ago, United talked to the Maryland Stadium Authority about a possible project. Have you gone back to them in the wake of your issues with the District?

KP: We've engaged an agency that is going to explore opportunities elsewhere. I believe the Maryland Stadium Authority is probably going to have some level of interest.

VM: We hope.

WP: Given all the stadium obstacles, do you regret buying the team?

VM: No. I just regret starting the process for Poplar Point. I enjoy the team very much, except for the frustrating part of creating the stadium. It's been a fabulous endeavor. ... The stadium, quite honestly, has been a distraction.

WP: Without a new stadium, this team will continue to lose money, true?

VM: Absolutely. A lot of money.

KP: We're going to get a stadium.

VM: The sooner the better.

WP: Would you consider building far outside the city, like FC Dallas did?

VM: We made our name in urban communities, making a difference in urban communities. ... We're not going in some rural area to do it.

KP: Our name is D.C. United.

WP: Is this back and forth between you and the city part of a ploy to get them to say they made a mistake and they really do want you?

VM: We would love for them to say they want us. At the end of the day, I hope they do want us, if not at Poplar Point, then somewhere. But at some point, they do have to say they want us. ... If you don't want us, just tell me. I won't quibble. We will have a stadium somewhere. Just tell me.

WP: Is it possible you could leave the area all together?

VM: No way.

WP: Some believe the next big stadium in the city will be for the Redskins. Would that impede your project?

VM: I don't see us being in competition at all.

WP: But completely hypothetically, if the RFK site is used for the Redskins, you would need another site.

VM: That makes the assumption that you can't fit both. If there is enough land, we would just have to make a decision that we are okay with building.

WP: Are you worried that the city will knock down RFK before you have a new stadium, forcing you to find a temporary home like FedEx Field?

VM: I have asked that question and I have been assured that is not going to happen. (pause) It could, I guess.

WP: Where did you leave it with the city after your meeting today?

VM: They are willing to work with our consultant and they said they will try to provide some alternate sites.

More details in Friday print editions and on washingtonpost.com......

By Steve Goff | October 11, 2007; 4:27 PM ET

7/21/07: The Washington Post - Talks Fall Apart On Stadium for D.C. Soccer Team

2008-01-22T23:56:00.000-05:00

By David Nakamura

Washington Post Staff Writer
Saturday, July 21, 2007; Page A01

Negotiations to build a soccer stadium for D.C. United in Southeast Washington have collapsed, leading District officials to pursue other options for the site and team officials to threaten to move the franchise out of the city, government sources said yesterday.

Mayor Adrian M. Fenty's administration had been negotiating for months with D.C. United's principal investor, real estate magnate Victor A. MacFarlane, over the team's proposal to build a 27,000-seat stadium in Ward 8, just across the Anacostia River from the Washington Nationals' new ballpark.
But the negotiations stalled over the financial terms. Although United offered to pay for the $150 million stadium, it asked for about $200 million in city subsidies, including roads, tax incentives and the right to develop additional land, said the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the negotiations were private.

Administration officials have decided to look at other options for the site, which is part of a 110-acre piece of federal land known as Poplar Point that is scheduled to be transferred to the District in the fall. The city will seek proposals from interested developers over the next two months, the sources said, with the focus on housing and retail. A soccer stadium still could be part of the mix but is not a top priority, the sources said.

Verizon Center, the downtown indoor sports arena, has been credited with playing a key role in the revitalization of its neighborhood; the economic impact of soccer stadiums appears less understood. D.C. United's attendance has averaged about 17,000 a game over the years.

During the negotiations, D.C. United officials suggested they would consider moving to Maryland or Virginia, possibly the Baltimore or Loudoun County areas, if the District was unable to help build a new stadium, the sources said. United plays at 46-year-old RFK Stadium and had hoped to have a new facility by 2009 or 2010.

"We're keeping our options open," said Julie Chase, a spokeswoman for MacFarlane. "We need a new stadium somewhere in the D.C. area. I can't put parameters on that."

Fenty's spokeswoman, Carrie Brooks, said in a statement last night: "Poplar Point represents a once in a lifetime development opportunity for the District of Columbia. A competitive process for the disposition of this land could provide the District with great ideas on how best to meet city objectives that include workforce development, affordable housing, great parkland, and sustainable development."

D.C. Council member Jack Evans (D-Ward 2), who championed the publicly funded $611 million baseball stadium, said of United: "It would be very unfortunate if they left the city. The stadium was a good idea, but the question was always who would pay for it. . . . I can understand their frustration, because they were led to believe the city very much was trying to make this happen."

Evans said another option that had been discussed is construction of a soccer stadium next to RFK, which would then be torn down.

Administration officials consider Poplar Point to be a unique development opportunity: a massive waterfront property in the city's poorest ward. But deciding what to do with the land has been the subject of much discussion.

Council member Marion Barry (D-Ward 8) has supported the stadium, but residents have been divided. Some agreed that the stadium would help bring new investors and opportunity; others voiced concern that it would not include affordable housing and jobs for residents.

Then-Mayor Anthony A. Williams (D) backed the stadium, but Fenty had been noncommittal. MacFarlane, a wealthy San Francisco real estate investor, bought United in January and pledged to work with Ward 8 to build a mixed-use development.

MacFarlane pledged to build a youth athletic field in Ward 8 and has attended numerous community meetings. He and other team officials are scheduled to attend D.C. United Family Fun Day tomorrow at Ketcham Elementary School on 15th Street SE, an event that was billed as a way to "publicly share the club's vision for a stadium at Poplar Point."
United President Kevin Payne declined to comment through a spokesman.

The team is the most successful franchise in Major League Soccer history, having won four league titles in 11 seasons.

Since 1999, MLS teams in Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Chicago, Toronto and Columbus, Ohio, have moved into new medium-sized facilities. The New York and Salt Lake City clubs have also broken ground on new facilities.

"We have put forth a very expansive plan that obviously addresses the needs of the soccer team and the soccer fans," Chase said. "We have also been addressing the needs and wants in Ward 8, where people are interested in improved community opportunities, retail and jobs."

Staff writers Steven Goff and Martin Weil contributed to this report.

12/22/06: The Washington Post - Soccer Stadium by 2009? City and D.C. United Differ

2008-01-22T23:39:00.000-05:00

Team Keeps Hope Despite Hurdles in Area's Redevelopment

A stadium is planned for Poplar Point, but the Anacostia Waterfront Corp. has yet to hire a master planner to create a redevelopment plan for the area. (By Bill O'leary -- The Washington Post)

By David Nakamura and Steven Goff

Washington Post Staff Writers
Friday, December 22, 2006; Page B04

D.C. United officials remain hopeful that a 27,000-seat soccer stadium can be built at Poplar Point along the Anacostia River by 2009, but District officials say significant challenges remain that could delay the project.

Although city planners have not ruled out opening a stadium in 2009, they said the project is behind schedule because of complications related to the transfer of 100 acres of federal land -- which includes the stadium site -- to the city.

Once the District gets title to the land, it must pay to clear the site of contamination and to relocate National Park Service facilities, officials said.

Even then, the Anacostia Waterfront Corp., which has been designated by the city to oversee development along the river, has said it will hire a master developer to create an integrated plan with housing and office and retail space before moving forward with a soccer stadium.

"It's challenging," said Stephen Goldsmith, the corporation's chairman. "The soccer guys think they can move quickly, but we're not where they expect us to be today."

For the past 2 1/2 years, as District leaders have been focused on the political fight to finance and build a baseball stadium near the Navy Yard and South Capitol Street SE, the soccer stadium project has taken a back seat.

But with the Washington Nationals set to move out of 45-year-old Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium by April 2008, the soccer project has taken on increasing urgency. The D.C. Sports and Entertainment Commission is trying to figure out RFK's future and hopes that United will find a new home.

"If a new soccer stadium is not ready for '09, we can keep RFK open for that year," said Mark H. Tuohey, the commission's chairman. "If you're talking an additional two years, we'd have to look carefully at that."

District leaders view Poplar Point, in Ward 8 across the Anacostia River from the baseball stadium site, as a critical plot whose development will help revitalize the long-neglected riverfront, just as the ballpark is expected to do on the Ward 6 side.

Officials consider the area, with sweeping river views, ideal for housing development. But so far, the Anacostia Waterfront Corp. has not settled on what else to build at Poplar Point.

This month, the corporation unveiled two plans. Both showed office, retail and residential development clustered in three areas: near Good Hope Road SE to the east, W Street SE in the middle and Howard Road SE farther west. One of the plans included a soccer stadium, showing the field in place of the development near W Street, with a 4,000-space parking garage and a 500-room conference center and hotel.

Unlike the baseball stadium, which is being funded with $611 million in public money, the city has not pledged any funding for the soccer stadium, which is projected to cost roughly $150 million.

Goldsmith's staff is considering two options to pay for a stadium. Under one scenario, United would finance the project and be awarded control of the surrounding development. Under the other, the city would keep control of the development and use tax money generated from the site to pay for the stadium. Either option would amount to public financing, because the city would be giving up assets that could otherwise pay for other city services.

The Anacostia Waterfront Corp. has scheduled a public hearing for Jan. 20.

Mayor-elect Adrian M. Fenty (D) has expressed general support for the redevelopment of Poplar Point, but he has not said how he expects the project to be financed. As the Ward 4 D.C. Council member, Fenty was a chief opponent of public funding of the baseball stadium.

Council member Marion Barry (D-Ward 8) first opposed the soccer stadium, but he now supports the project.

United could remain at RFK, but team officials balk at the prospect of playing in the cavernous 45,000-seat building. New, medium-sized stadiums have become a trend in Major League Soccer as a way to create a more intimate environment and, in turn, increase attendance.

United, which is in the process of being sold to an ownership group that has said it would build the stadium, has been working on designs with HKS Inc., an architecture firm based in Dallas.

Team President Kevin Payne reiterated recently that he expects the stadium to be ready by 2009.

"It's not going to be an easy task," Payne said. "There are a lot of things that have to be done. These things always take longer than you think they are going to. . . . But it can be done, and we're not willing to concede that it's not possible to open it by 2009."