Hamilton County commissioners hired an outside auditor to track expenses related to building Great American Ball Park on the same day construction managers reported that the cost of the facility is coming down.

        The cost of the ballpark had peaked at $300 million — more than $20 million over budget. But thanks to savings on contracts recently awarded, the price tag now is forecast at $280.8 million.

        Of course, that could go up — particularly because the building is behind schedule in two key areas: Structural steel is five weeks behind and concrete for the terrace level is lagging by about two weeks.

        Project Manager Arnie Rosenberg said a new schedule has been devised to make up the time.

        “We're confident this can be made up and there will be no impact on Opening Day,” Mr. Rosenberg said.

        The ballpark is scheduled to be ready in April 2003. Taxpayers will spend a maximum of $280 million on the structure, with any overruns being covered by the Reds or by cost-cutting.

        New York auditors KPMG will handle ballpark auditing, along with associated parking garages and infrastructure improvements. The firm will start by looking at work already done.

        Commissioner Todd Portune, who made the hiring of an auditor part of his successful campaign last fall, applauded the move.

        “This is absolutely necessary,” Mr. Portune said. “We've seen some positive trends recently, and the auditor will only further enhance those efforts.”

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