Wednesday, September 14, 2011

BREAKING: Arena Deal Reached For CBJ To Stay

((HT: WBNS-TV))

The Blue Jackets have agreed to remain in Columbus after a deal was reached between the city, state and Franklin County ((OH)) to buy Nationwide Arena, according to WBNS-TV.

The arena, which will still be called Nationwide Arena, will be managed by the Franklin County Facilities Authority.

The Blue Jackets said that the franchise was losing $12 million ((and has reportedly lost close to US$80M since the lockout ended six years ago)). Part of the blame is pointed at the lease agreement on Nationwide- which is privately financed to begin with.

The Columbus Chamber of Commerce released a report in late 2009 that the Blue Jackets' continuing financial losses could result in the team's departure from the city.

Considering the current climate, that would have been an easy thought. But the location for relocation is, and always will be, the question as the only markets ready to support hockey regularly are Canadian markets.

The HQ would like to congratulate the powers that are to keep CBJ around...

More when we know more...

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