City approached about basketball arena near Safeco Field

By Steve Miletich and Emily Heffte
Seattle Times staff reporters

Seattle city officials have been approached by a private group looking to build a basketball arena in the Sodo District near Safeco Field in the hopes of attracting an NBA franchise, according to two sources who have been briefed on the talks.

The proposal involves an investor who has acquired property, apparently south of Safeco Field, although at least one business owner has declined to sell, according to the sources.

Mayor Mike McGinn has been working with the group for several months to explore how the city can aid the effort, including help with financing, the sources said.

McGinn’s office confirmed Friday night that it is examining an “opportunity,” but declined to provide specific information.

“Our office has had many enthusiastic overtures concerning the return of an NBA franchise to Seattle,” the statement said. “Some of these offers have been serious. Some have not been serious. And the current speculation is over one of these proposals. We are looking at this opportunity, examining its specifics and how it fits our city. At this point, we have not received a concrete offer.”

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