While the Chicago Bears have explored (and fought about) everything from building a new stadium near the deteriorating Soldier Field near downtown to building a stadium in the suburbs, Cleveland Browns ownership has stepped up with a huge investment to ensure the team stays in northeast Ohio for the forseeable future.
Earlier today, The Haslam Sports Group announced a historic investment of $2 billion today to build a state of the art enclosed stadium and mixed-use entertainment district just a mile outside of Cleveland city limits.
The investment marks the largest per capita dedicated to a private sports facility in American history.
Cleveland's announcement notes that the enclosed stadium and mixed-use development is the "most viable long-term solution" for the city and team.
The team's release shares, in part:
"The enclosed stadium will draw millions of visitors to the region throughout the year for premier large-scale events which will drive the fiscal and economic impact necessary to pay for the public portion of the funding model. Second, the location is of great importance. The new stadium will sit less than a mile from Cleveland city limits, and is easily accessible from two major highways, which is particularly important since 85% of our home game attendees live outside of the city limits."
Plans for the enclosed stadium look very impressive, and the location looks to be just on the other side of the city's airport.
The enclosed stadium will feature an innovative transparent roof, and a bowl design "with the closest seats to the action for the most intimate feel of any NFL stadium," as well as a first ever "Fan Wall" to celebrate the Dawg Pound and the rest of the proud city's fan base.
Take a look at what the Haslam's have envisioned in the clip.