The Battle for New York (part 2)
Back in April I wrote an article on how sports teams jockey for position in the New York / New Jersey area. Yesterday, the New Jersey Nets took the next step in their quest to enhance their presence in this battlefield.
As of this writing (09/15/05 3:45p.m. EST), Newsday.com’s poll:
Nets to nest in B’klyn?
Do you think the proposed Nets arena in Brooklyn is agood idea?
18.3%Yes. It will bring the area revenue and newbusinesses. (554 responses)
79.5%No. It will destroy the character and cause traffic.(2401 responses)
2.2%Not sure. (67 responses)
3022 total responses
I voted “No” though I am somewhat on the fence when it comes to this move. Coming from this side of the river to attend games at Continental Air Arena is not a pleasant experience. That goes only for the commute (to and from) and the lack of post-game activity near the arena. In this aspect, I believe the owner is right in seeking a better location, especially when fan-support (attendance) is lacking.
But, as long-time Brooklyn resident who has spent considerable social time near the area to be used for the Net’s Brooklyn move, I have seen the early negative effects of construction in that area. Downtown Brooklyn, home to Bruce Ratner’s Metrotech provides jobs to thousands and has a top-rated hotel nearby. Once the work day is done, there is little social activity near there, for lack of residents and a neighborhood feel.
As one proceeds further (about one mile, down Flatbush Avenue) into the borough, there stands the new shopping mall (Atlantic Terminal). The Nets’ new arnea and housing complex will stand next to this recent development. The borough will definitely lose more of its unique look, as it further becomes “Manhattan Extended”.
The other aspect of this battle: the potential use of eminent domain to force long-time residents from their property.
Many battles make a war…stay tuned for more.
See you next time on Nothin but Nets…
In the meantime hit me up with a comment and let’s politik on the Nets move to Brooklyn.
As of this writing (09/15/05 3:45p.m. EST), Newsday.com’s poll:
Nets to nest in B’klyn?
Do you think the proposed Nets arena in Brooklyn is agood idea?
18.3%Yes. It will bring the area revenue and newbusinesses. (554 responses)
79.5%No. It will destroy the character and cause traffic.(2401 responses)
2.2%Not sure. (67 responses)
3022 total responses
I voted “No” though I am somewhat on the fence when it comes to this move. Coming from this side of the river to attend games at Continental Air Arena is not a pleasant experience. That goes only for the commute (to and from) and the lack of post-game activity near the arena. In this aspect, I believe the owner is right in seeking a better location, especially when fan-support (attendance) is lacking.
But, as long-time Brooklyn resident who has spent considerable social time near the area to be used for the Net’s Brooklyn move, I have seen the early negative effects of construction in that area. Downtown Brooklyn, home to Bruce Ratner’s Metrotech provides jobs to thousands and has a top-rated hotel nearby. Once the work day is done, there is little social activity near there, for lack of residents and a neighborhood feel.
As one proceeds further (about one mile, down Flatbush Avenue) into the borough, there stands the new shopping mall (Atlantic Terminal). The Nets’ new arnea and housing complex will stand next to this recent development. The borough will definitely lose more of its unique look, as it further becomes “Manhattan Extended”.
The other aspect of this battle: the potential use of eminent domain to force long-time residents from their property.
Many battles make a war…stay tuned for more.
See you next time on Nothin but Nets…
In the meantime hit me up with a comment and let’s politik on the Nets move to Brooklyn.
posted by Guichard Cadet @ 1:26 PM
0 comments
0 Comments:
Post a Comment
<< Home