Detroit's City Council is delaying a vote that would let the new, multi-million dollar Red Wings arena move ahead.
It was supposed to decide today whether Olympia development could go ahead with its current plans to build around one historic hotel, the Eddystone, while razing another, the Park Avenue.
Preservationists want to save both. Detroit resident Nicholas Miller told the Council that since the new arena is supposed to help revitalize the neighborhood, it doesn't make sense to tear down part of what makes the area unique.
“So if it doesn’t serve that purpose, we already have a hockey arena. We don’t need a new one.”
Council members said they didn’t vote on the plans today because they don’t have the right documents yet.
But two council members said after the meeting that they’re optimistic the plans will pass next week – even though it means losing the Park Avenue hotel.
"At the end of the day, my attitude is: raze one, save one," says Councilman Gabe Leland.
"At the end of the day, my attitude is: raze one, save one,” says Councilman Gabe Leland. “And I believe that what was negotiated represents a pretty good deal, something that I hope my colleagues can support.”
Councilman George Cushingberry says the City Council has done the best it can.
“I don’t want to put any more pressure on the people who are making such a big investment in our city.”
Olympia hopes to have the arena open in time for the Red Wings 2017 season.
