Keystone Group Claims City Backing Out of Deal as Indy Mayor Prepares Major Sports Announcement

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
25/04/2024 21h57

In a surprising turn of events, Keystone Group, the Indianapolis-based company working on the development of Eleven Park, has accused the City of Indianapolis of withdrawing from their previously agreed-upon deal. The allegation comes as Mayor Joe Hogsett is set to make a "major announcement" about the future of sports in the city.

Eleven Park, a $1 billion 18-acre complex, was announced in June 2022 and was intended to feature a 20,000-seat multipurpose stadium as the home field for the Indy Eleven USL Championship soccer team. The ambitious project was also set to include over 600 apartments, a music venue, retail and office space, green areas, and a public parking garage. The complex was strategically planned between two major sports venues, Victory Field and Lucas Oil Stadium.

Construction on the project began in 2023 after Keystone Group's subsidiary purchased the Diamond Chain manufacturing site at 402 Kentucky Avenue. However, during the demolition process, human remains were discovered on the site, adding a new challenge to the development.

Keystone Group now claims that the future of Eleven Park is in jeopardy due to the City of Indianapolis reneging on their deal. In their news release, the company expressed disappointment over the alleged decision by Mayor Hogsett's administration, stating that it is a reversal of his previous public support for the project.

The developers also emphasized that despite the budget doubling from $500 million to $1 billion, the project had a developer-guaranteed partnership that would not burden Indianapolis residents with new taxes. Keystone Group called the mayor's alleged decision troubling and concerning, pointing out the impact on local investors, job commitments, and the passionate fan base of Indy Eleven.

While the City and Mayor Hogsett's office have yet to confirm or respond to these allegations, a major announcement on the future of sports in Indianapolis is scheduled for today. The press conference, planned for 5:30 p.m., will address the exciting sports landscape of the city and will likely touch on Keystone Group's claims and the status of Eleven Park.

Keystone Group's statement concludes with a plea for Mayor Hogsett to reconsider the deal, highlighting the company's commitment to transform a long-neglected part of Indianapolis into a vibrant community space.

This unexpected turn of events casts a shadow of uncertainty over the ambitious Eleven Park project, leaving stakeholders and fans eagerly awaiting Mayor Hogsett's announcement and hoping for a resolution that will salvage the development plans.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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