OLYMPIA - On Thursday, Sen. David Frockt, Sen. Jeanne Kohl-Welles, Sen. Margarita Prentice and Rep. Eric Pettigrew released the following statement concerning the proposed building of a multi-use arena in South Seattle:

“Today we have taken a first step that the City of Seattle and Washington sports fans have been dreaming of for several years.

“We are excited that Chris Hansen, his colleagues, the City of Seattle and King County have brought this proposal forward.  We are in the early stages of this process and more details are to follow, but what we have heard to date is that there are not expected to be any funding requests made to the state Legislature.  We believe that is a smart approach given the budget realities for our schools, colleges and universities and, essential services with which we are grappling.  However, we are supportive of the work that has been done to this point and look forward to the continuing public process, which we hope will end in success.

“The announcement of a proposal to build a multi-use arena south of Safeco Field will mean far more than the chance to return a team that for 41 years was a source of pride and passion for our city and our region.  It will mean more than the chance to introduce the Northwest to the fans of the National Hockey League.  This would be a terrific addition to our community.  It’s a perfect location for the use of linked light rail, and the neighborhood businesses will thrive.  It will mean the introduction of an economic driver and an infusion of potential business and revenue that may help the city, county and state continue the climb back from the effects of the recession.”

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For more information: Ian Cope, Senate Democratic Communications, 360-786-7535

For interviews: Sen. Jeanne Kohl-Welles, 360-786-7670, Sen. David Frockt, 360-786-7690, Sen. Margarita Prentice, 360-786-7616 and Rep. Eric Pettigrew, 360-786-7838