[DetroitMan]

Ground was broken yesterday on Savannah's new $165 million arena.
Groundbreaking celebration starts work for new Savannah arena
Savannah Morning News
September 13, 2019
By DeAnna Komanecky
Savannah Arena-Savannah by brandon walker, on Flickr

First District Alderman Van Johnson said it has been a long process to get to today’s ground breaking.

“The overall Canal District when it’s developed should create economic vitality and immense opportunities for not only this area but for the entire city,” Johnson said. He stressed the project would be helpful to the community, not harmful.

“This will not be a gentrification project this will be an enhancement project for all to enjoy,” Johnson said. “I’m tired of waiting, let’s get this done.”

City Manager Pat Monahan said the $165 million sales-tax funded project is being paid for in large part by visitors through the revenues from the 1% Special Purpose Local Options Sales Tax and car rental taxes. “About 60% of this project has been paid by visitors,” Monahan said. “No property taxes have been spent.”

“This project is an economic catalyst and a source of pride (for the community),” Monahan said.

Mayor DeLoach said he is grateful to all who have “stayed the course” on the project.

https://www.savannahnow.com/news/201...savannah-arena