Four years ago we lost the SuperSonics--an integral part of Seattle and a local institution since 1967. Not only did it hurt Seattle sports fans, it hurt Seattle’s image. We now have a chance to bring professional basketball back to Seattle, and to do so much more.

Private citizens are now working on a deal that would build a new arena at no expense to the general public. The new arena will help bring an NBA or NHL team to Seattle, but it will be more than a building for sports fans. It could host more than 300 events per year and serve as the premier indoor concert venue and convention space in the region. These large-scale entertainment, business and cultural events promote tourism and increase economic activity in Seattle and around the Puget Sound.

The City of Seattle deserves a modern facility to host world-class events. A proper balance of political support, private investment and fan enthusiasm can provide our region with this new arena facility using a viable and self-sustaining business model.