Professional soccer team Indy Eleven asked state legislators this year for help with a new $87 million stadium, and they're planning a second shot.
The plan for a tax-recapture district along the lines of the deal—which financed renovations to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway—passed the House but hit resistance in the Senate, where leaders objected to the proposal's sudden appearance late in the legislative session.
Peter Wilt, general manager of Indy Eleven, says he's hopeful the longer budget session in 2015 will bring a warmer reception to the proposal.
"It would be some sort of financing that would be repaid in essence with user fees," Wilt says. "Similar to how Bankers Life or other local stadium deals have been structured."
Wilt says a new soccer stadium would be an international economic draw for the city and would be particularly attractive to young urban professionals.
"Soccer in particular appeals to a younger demographic that I think it's important that the state retain. Having quality soccer opportunities for entertainment is something that will keep young people here," Wilt says.
Wilt says teams in any sport need a stadium of their own.
He says IUPUI's Michael A. Carroll Stadium, where Indy Eleven opens its second season in April, was originally designed for track and field, and doesn't have enough lockers, restrooms or concession stands for soccer.
Wilt says he also predicts its capacity won't be enough in the long run.