A new ballpark in Clark County for the relocating Yakima Bears (short season A; Northwest League) could generate $206.5 million over a 20-year lease, according to a study commissioned by the Columbia River Economic Development Council.
The study indicates the Bears would generate $4.6 million annually from the Bears via ballgames and other events, $4 million annually from regional and national baseball tournaments, and $34.5 million from the construction cost. The current funding proposal calls for a 5 percent admissions tax, with the Bears picking up 30 percent of construction cost.
Clark County is located opposite Portland, Oregon on the Washington State side of the metro area. With the loss of the Portland Beavers (Class AAA; Pacific Coast League), there’s been efforts to bring pro baseball back to what’s still seen as a good market. The Bears weren’t the only ones looking at the metro area, but they were the first to come forth with a deal.
Negotiations over the terms of a deal will continue between Clark County staff and the Bears.
RELATED STORIES: Clark County reverses course; will exclusively negotiate with Bears; Clark County passes on exclusive negotiations with Bears; opposition to new ballpark rises; Funding plan emerges for new Clark County ballpark; Yakima Bears to Portland area
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