The Cavaliers could be at the center of a new funding plan in downtown Cleveland.
According to Cleveland.com, Mayor Justin Bibb is exploring a proposal that would raise up to $9 million for repairs at Rocket Arena and Cleveland Guardians games by adding small fees to tickets, concessions, parking and merchandise.
The idea is simple — shift more of the burden from taxpayers to stadium users.
City Hall has studied a “New Community Authority” that could apply fees across a large portion of downtown, not just the arena, according to the report. That includes nearby businesses, parking areas and property owners in the Gateway District.
For Cavs fans, that could mean slight increases.
Think a few cents on food and drinks, or added fees on tickets and team gear. According to records obtained by Cleveland.com, fees tied to Cavs games alone could generate between $1 million and $4.9 million annually.
Over time, that adds up.
The broader plan could bring in tens of millions over the next 30 years, depending on participation and fee levels.
But there’s a catch. Namely, the Cavs and Guardians would need to sign off on it. So far, neither team has publicly supported the idea. And without them, the plan loses most of its bite.
City officials say the concept is largely built out, but currently on pause as other funding options are explored.
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Great, so now you can get a set of nose bleed seats for $190, plus $40 in parking, plus whatever food you get, and now add even more cost with this additional fee. And again these are the cheapest seats where you need binoculars to even see any of the action. I would like see a reporter find out how much profit/revenue these venues actually make and why those funds are not reinvested into the venues for repairs…