An investment in more than sports

Very soon, Portland will make a once-in-a-generation decision. We have an opportunity to create more than 600 construction jobs and 300 permanent jobs, an opportunity to leverage at least $40 million in private investment, an opportunity to revitalize our city with millions in private investment and new sustainability-focused development, an opportunity to showcase Portland and Oregon to the nation and world by adding another major league team poised to flourish, and an opportunity for more than 1 million people every year to help build our economy and community.

We can accomplish all this — and more — with a positive decision by March 15 from the Portland City Council to support our proposal to bring Major League Soccer to Portland at PGE Park and to build a new ballpark for the Portland Beavers.

Soccer City, USA, deserves soccer played at its highest level. The Portland Timbers enjoy big crowds and passionate fans. The 2003 Women’s World Cup in Portland drew more than 80,000 fans. More than 60,000 young people participate in club soccer in our area. And MLS is booming.

– Excerpt from The Oregonian, Guest Opinion by Merritt Paulson, owner of the Portland Timbers and Beavers