The Inner Harbor, Harbor East, Camden Yards and many other such projects were all success. Now it's time to take Baltimore and its image to the next level. I propose the creation of a Super Track, which would combine a horse racing facility with a new Baltimore arena.
Such a complex would solve the problem of building a new arena by combining the project with a state-of-the-art racing venue that would silence all talk of relocating the Preakness out of Baltimore City ("Is sun setting on Preakness at Pimlico?" May 17).
A Super Track could be privately funded and located at Port Covington. The current property owner, Kevin Plank, has already indicated an interest in horse racing by placing his Sagamore Farm activities at the site.
Mr. Plank, the CEO of Under Armour, has announced a strong desire to promote Baltimore. An exciting project like the Super Track would bring global attention to Baltimore in a positive way.
The site would be located on the water for access to boaters and also next to the cruise line terminals. Interstate 95 and other transportation assets are all nearby.
A Super Track could include other entertainment opportunities, such as hotels, theaters, restaurants and marinas. All of these assets would contribute to the financing of the complex, which would decrease the dependence on revenue from horse racing alone and guarantee financial success.
Along with Mr. Plank, other Baltimore boosters, such as David Cordish and John Paterakas, have demonstrated their interest in a new arena. The level of successful individuals that could be involved, along with Frank Stronach, the owner of Pimlico, offers a golden opportunity to produce a one-of-a-kind economic asset.
Currently, many individuals and elected officials are talking about the potential demise of Baltimore area horse racing, but they are not offering any solutions. Frankly, the current Pimlico facility has no future.
The second part of my idea would be the conversion of the existing Pimlico Race Track grounds into a jobs enterprise zone that would provide training and work opportunities. The downtown location of the Royal Farms Civic Arena would also be available for new development.
It's time to cease the hand-wringing and build a solution. If we build it, they will come.
Del. Pat McDonough, Annapolis
The writer, a Republican, represents District 7, Baltimore and Harford counties, in the Maryland House of Delegates.