One of the arguments that sold voters on the Hamilton County sales tax increase in 1996 was the idea that major league sports translates into major league economic development.

BROADWAY COMMONS		BASEBALL ON MAIN
Proponents argue a ballpark in northeast downtown will spur growth there, bringing new life to long-neglected Over-the-Rhine and adding to the success of the Main Street entertainment district. They also believe a new ballpark could spur more interest in the area's large stock of historic housing. Riverfront proponents argue Broadway would be better off with a new residential and commercial development. Proponents argue a ballpark farther into town keeps more money in Cincinnati. A riverfront ballpark, they say, translates into money for Northern Kentucky businesses. Example: The turnaround of a skid-row area in Denver after the construction of Coors Field.		Proponents argue a riverfront ballpark offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to develop the central riverfront, home to parking lots and warehouses for more than a generation. Two stadiums on the river will attract money to build parking garages, freeing up prized riverfront land for parks. Example: Baltimore, where football and baseball stadiums close together attracted sports-oriented stores and eateries.

CONTEXT: Economists across the country have questioned whether sports facilities generate much economic development. A recent study by the conservative Heritage Foundation says communities that subsidize such projects spend much more than they get back.

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