City council committee will consider options for Seattle arena

SEATTLE — A Seattle City Council committee will work to find the best option for a new sports arena.

There are two high profile proposals -- redeveloping Key Arena or building a new arena in the SODO district.

The new Select Committee on Civic Arenas is considering is tearing down the iconic KeyArena and starting over.

A potential roadblock to the project is whether the roof of the 55-year-old facility gains historic status.

In that case, the arena could only be renovated, and at least two development groups have expressed interest in doing that.

Meanwhile, Chris Hansen and one of his partners, Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson, want to build a new stadium in the SODO area.

"Obviously I believe SODO is better. We want to start a new arena, a new stadium and have basketball back and hockey and all the music as well,” said Wilson.

The SODO deal would privately financed, with no money from taxpayers.

Either option could mean a return of an NBA or an NHL team in Seattle.

During Monday's meeting, there will be time for public comments to get more idea on what people want to see for KeyArena, which was built in 1962.

All proposals need to be in by April 12.

The meetings will occur every month until the final recommendations are delivered to Mayor Ed Murray at the end of June. Murray is set to make a decision by July 10.

The meeting starts at 10 a.m.

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