(July 31, 2002)
Allegheny County Chief Executive Jim Roddey released the following statement today regarding the Sports & Exhibition Authority’s proposed development and financing package for a new arena:

"Earlier today the Sports and Exhibition Authority announced a development and financing package for a new arena. While I am pleased that no county operating funds are included in their proposal, their plan troubles me for several reasons.

First, the Commonwealth’s contribution is significantly more than what has been authorized. Furthermore, as I have said for months, I do not believe the Regional Asset District can afford to contribute more money to a new arena than it is already contributing to the existing Mellon Arena. I am concerned that the plan proposed today would divert much needed resources from our libraries, parks and important cultural facilities. While I appreciate the commitment that Mario Lemieux has made to our community, it is my hope the RAD Board will not take on the additional financial obligations outlined in the SEA’s plan.”

Executive Roddey is out of the country, leading a 17-member delegation of regional business, academic and governmental leaders to the United Kingdom, with the intent of strengthening the bilateral investment alliance among our regions and promoting Southwestern Pennsylvania to businesses with a high potential to invest here.