Doug Obletz has the right idea for Memorial Coliseum

At the heart of the Obletz plan is the Memorial Athletic and Recreational Center (MARC), a concept that fits Portland like a glove.  And I don't mean a baseball glove.

Portlanders, from my perspective, are more inclined to participate than spectate.  That's an identity better suited to Portland than as the home of another batch of professional athletes.

But the good thing about Obletz' vision for the Rose Quarter is that it doesn't pick a quarrel with Merritt Paulson, soccer fans, baseball afficionados, or Paul Allen's dream of a vibrant Rose Quarter.  It accommodates them all, but better, far better, than anything proposed so far.

Furthermore it preserves the Coliseum rather than demolishing it.  That should please those (here and here) who appreciate its architecture and military veterans who cherish the building as a war memorial.

Let's face it.  The Rose Quarter is about as lively and accessible as a desert island.  Plopping a minor league baseball stadium onto the site of the Coliseum isn't going to change that.  But a MARC facility, in combination with an entertainment center adjacent to the Rose Garden and a baseball stadium just a couple of blocks away on the site of the oversized Portland Public Schools adminstration building, is much more likely to affect the vibrancy of the currently moribund Rose Quarter.  And the entire surrounding area.

How much will it cost?  No idea.  But it's better to think big than to think cheap and then, in the future, regret the limits of our vision.  In Obletz' words, let's "make it a place the people of Portland can be proud of... ."

Comments

[Marian]

This sounds like a terrific idea. I think this is the type of investment that would benefit our city for decades. It is a match for our values and, if done correctly, will accomplish a lot.

[Terry]

Well I think it's a terrific idea, Marian. It's actually been around since 2004 but revived for the current discussion over the fate of the Coliseum and the Rose Quarter.

Unfortunately, it doesn't appear that the decision makers are giving it the credence it deserves.

[air jordans]

Firstly,thanks for your share of your experience and happy.so I hope you could do better and keep show it in your blog.I like this blog,and may often attention it.

[AlbaHerman22]

All people deserve very good life and personal loans or secured loan will make it much better. Just because freedom relies on money state.