Best News for Soccer Fans

In November, when the Metro Council voted overwhelmingly to build an MLS stadium at The Fairgrounds Nashville, it was cause for rejoicing among the region’s substantial soccer community. But between that meeting and the votes to actually tear down and rebuild the fairgrounds buildings in September, the political sands had shifted. The factors? First, Megan Barry, the project’s biggest supporter, resigned. Then the city found itself in a budget pinch after property reappraisals. And to top it all off, there was lingering resentment among some council members over certain city priorities (namely, the sad state of Metro General Hospital). What’s more, some naysayers just didn’t want the city to spend any money on the project, despite the fact that it’s a pretty good deal, as far as stadiums go — owner John Ingram will repay almost all of the bonds and cover any cost overruns, and the team entered into a historic community benefits agreement that will govern its construction. The stadium will be ready to go for the 2021 season. STEVE CAVENDISH

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