Major news occurred Wednesday night, with Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer confirming to WFTV Channel 9 that the land the City of Orlando has been acquiring downtown is the preferred site for a multi-purpose soccer stadium. The two blocks where the stadium will be located are bordered by Central Boulevard, Church Street, Terry and Parramore avenues.
In an interview with WFTV Channel 9, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer said the location would be a ‘perfect’ spot for the potential soccer stadium.
“I can tell you with certainty that is where we would like to construct the stadium,” he said in the interview. “It makes sense.”
Orlando ownership have stated that the club is aiming for entry into MLS by the end of 2013, and with it, play in a new downtown stadium by the 2015 MLS season.
Orlando City SC President Phil Rawlins told Orlandocitysoccer.com that he sees the land for the potential downtown multi-purpose soccer stadium as one that fans would enjoy.
“We’re delighted to have the backing of the City of Orlando and Mayor Buddy Dyer,” said Orlando City President Phil Rawlins. “If the site on Church Street turns out to be the location, we think it’ll be a great location relative to downtown for our fans.”
The Lions have been making big strides over the past few months toward entry into MLS, including a significant investment from Brazilian businessman Flavio Augusto da Silva in February. The investment will be used for the club’s share of a private/publicly funded multi-purpose soccer stadium in Orlando and the future acquisition of an MLS franchise.
“Every year, hundreds of thousands of Brazilians visit Orlando,” said da Silva. “It's our number one destination in the US and us Brazilians, besides being famous for our friendliness and willingness to buy at the outlets and malls; we are also a nation that loves soccer. More than that, we are a country of 200 million fanatics for soccer. It is a great honor that I now become a part of this vibrant soccer club, Orlando City, which is being built with boldness to make history in this country and will give much pride to this City.”
Fans are encouraged to sign a petition stating they believe and support a MLS franchise in Orlando by visiting Orlandobelievesinmls.com (link). People can also find out all the facts and information regarding MLS in Central Florida, the team’s commitment and much more.
Photo: Orlando Sentinel
