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Encore Boston Harbor shines brightly amidst its surroundings, like a precious gem waiting to be discovered. Its magnificent gold exterior stands in stark contrast to the neighboring power plant, adorned with its smoke stacks. Yet, a transformation is on the horizon. A proposal has emerged to construct a Major League Soccer stadium in close proximity to Encore Boston Harbor.
Three years ago, Encore Boston Harbor was inaugurated in Everett, situated alongside the Mystic River. This expansive 33-acre establishment encompasses a casino, hotel, restaurants, spa, salon, and a remarkable 6-acre park known as Harborwalk.
Robert Kraft, the owner of the New England Revolution, envisions transforming the unsightly neighboring area of Encore into a magnificent new MLS stadium, if his desires are fulfilled.
Legislative action could make new stadium possible
Last week, an amendment was introduced by Massachusetts lawmakers to an environmental bill currently progressing through the House. This amendment aims to terminate specific environmental safeguards applicable to the power plant’s premises.
By eliminating these protections, Kraft would gain the opportunity to construct his desired stadium. This would be made possible by removing the limitations on what could be developed on the property. Consequently, Kraft would be able to collaborate with a developer to finally bring his long-awaited soccer stadium to life.
In order to construct a stadium, a series of necessary steps must be taken. Firstly, the bill needs to be approved by the Senate. Next, Gov. Charlie Baker must sign the bill, officially making it a law. Additionally, Kraft must acquire the property from its current owner, Constellation Energy. Lastly, the stadium must gain approval from local officials.
According to The Boston Globe, it is likely that Baker would be in favor of the bill, and Constellation has confirmed plans to sell a 45-acre portion of its property. Everett Mayor Carlo DeMaria has also expressed his support for the site, stating his enthusiasm for the potential opportunities it presents.
DeMaria stated that the redevelopment of the Constellation Energy generating sites presents a long-awaited opportunity for the residents of Everett to experience the advantages of economic development that they truly deserve. He has always recognized the immense potential of Everett to transition from its industrial era commercial activities, mainly due to the availability of spacious land that is now scarce in neighboring areas.
Kraft has pushed new stadium for years
Gillette Stadium, located in Foxborough, serves as the home ground for the Revolution. Though renowned for its vibrant ambiance during New England Patriots games, the stadium’s vast size is not ideal for MLS matches. Constructing a new stadium would provide Kraft with the opportunity to establish a more intimate and cozy environment for his soccer team.
Over the past decade, the Kraft family and local leaders have presented numerous stadium locations in their relentless efforts to bring that stadium to reality, comparable in number to the Super Bowl titles achieved by Kraft’s Patriots.
- UMass Boston campus
- The city of Boston owns a tow lot located in South Boston.
- Somerville’s Assembly Row
- The previous Wonderland dog track located in Revere
- Roxbury
What sets the Constellation property apart from others is that it possesses a few distinct advantages.
According to the Globe, the property forms a part of a larger redevelopment plan, which also involves a parcel of land that ExxonMobil recently sold. This area presents a lucrative opportunity for affluent developers to establish their projects. Kraft, being well-off and prepared for construction, has already initiated informal discussions with DeMaria regarding the sale of the property.
If sports betting is legalized, it would be ideal to construct a soccer stadium adjacent to the Encore. Wynn Resorts, the owner of Encore, has actively advocated for the legalization of sports betting in Massachusetts. CEO Craig Billings has expressed the company’s readiness to participate in the industry from the very beginning, considering it a significant milestone for the business.
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