Submitted by Possibilities (not verified) on Fri, 03/12/2010 - 4:54pm.
There have been many cost-benefit studies over the years that show the costs outweigh the benefits when talking about a minor league ballpark in Wilmington. However, the question is really what does Wilmington want to be? Most cities of comparable size and population makeups in NC and SC have minor league teams. Winston-Salem, Hickory, Greensboro, Durham, Myrtle Beach etc. These cities also have preforming arts venues, convention centers, hotels, restaurants, Univeristies, airports, etc. In order to be considered a true first-rate city, Wilmington needs a ballpark. But if we're content to continue the staus quo with a lack of entertainment options, qualitiy facilities, classy-looking streetscapes,etc. then that's our choice. We'll continue to drudge through being compared with cities like Kinston and Jacksonville. Just good luck in recruiting high-paying industry. Ultimately, you get what you pay for.
What does Wilmington want to be?
There have been many cost-benefit studies over the years that show the costs outweigh the benefits when talking about a minor league ballpark in Wilmington. However, the question is really what does Wilmington want to be? Most cities of comparable size and population makeups in NC and SC have minor league teams. Winston-Salem, Hickory, Greensboro, Durham, Myrtle Beach etc. These cities also have preforming arts venues, convention centers, hotels, restaurants, Univeristies, airports, etc. In order to be considered a true first-rate city, Wilmington needs a ballpark. But if we're content to continue the staus quo with a lack of entertainment options, qualitiy facilities, classy-looking streetscapes,etc. then that's our choice. We'll continue to drudge through being compared with cities like Kinston and Jacksonville. Just good luck in recruiting high-paying industry. Ultimately, you get what you pay for.