City asking developers to submit ideas for city-owned plot that NFL is eyeing.
by Sarah Tully
The Orange County Register - Thursday, August 3, 2006
ANAHEIM - Developers have until the end of the month to turn in ideas for a city-owned plot that the NFL is also considering for a stadium.
Last month, the city mailed information packets to 155 developers to solicit visions for the 51.4-acre site next to Angel Stadium. The packet is also on the city's Web site and e-mails were sent to other planners.
City officials continue to talk to NFL negotiators about building a stadium on the plot. But because team owners failed to choose the site by a May 31 deadline, city officials are following through with their warning to pursue other options.
The league is considering Anaheim, Los Angeles or both for a return to the region after a decade-long absence.
Mayor Curt Pringle said the city wants to find the best long-term use for the property.
"We're not looking at who we can sell the property to. We're looking at where economic value can be derived," Pringle said.
Last month, outgoing Commissioner Paul Tagliabue had a conference call with the working group that is studying the league's options in the area. On July 24, the league's top negotiator gave an update to owners on discussions, said Brian McCarthy, NFL spokesman.
NFL and city negotiators are planning to meet or schedule a conference call in the next few weeks.
At the same time, developers are reviewing the city's 48-page packets that outline requirements and possibilities for the same plot, ranging from a hotel to a youth sports facility.
Any development would be integrated with other amenities in the Platinum Triangle, which is turning into a downtown-like setting with condos, shops and transportation. More than 8,000 homes are planned.
The city's lease with the Angels bans residences on the plot, but the packet states that a developer could try to negotiate a lease change to allow homes. Angels officials declined to comment, said Tim Mead, team spokesman.
The plot includes The Grove of Anaheim theater, which could be left alone, torn down or used for a different purpose.
Also, a developer would have to work around a train station and parking spaces that sit on the corner. Eventually, the stop is set to be moved across the Orange (57) Freeway to a planned transportation hub, called Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center, or ARTIC.
After the Aug. 31 deadline, city staff members plan to review and narrow down plans, then invite developers to submit formal proposals.
City officials declined to say how many developers have responded. Lennar Corp., which is building the triangle's largest development, plans to take an "aggressive look" at the property, said Rich Knowland, division president.
Councilman Harry Sidhu, who has criticized the city's NFL proposal, said he is relieved the city is entertaining other plans, which he believes could fetch more money.
"It's a great move," Sidhu said. "All I want to do is have some choices. And this is what I like, that yes, now we will have some choices from different people."