Miami Voters To Say If Key Biscayne Can Expand The Tournament Site

Written by: Staff on 31st October 2012

Miami Voters To Say If Key Biscayne Can Expand The Tournament Site

epa02098118 Samantha Stosur of Australia returns a shot from Jelena Jankovic of Serbia at the Sony Ericsson Open in Key Biscayne, Florida, USA, 29 March 2010. EPA/ANDREW GOMBERT |

Miami voters will have the final word on whether Crandon Park, home of the spring Miami Masters on Key Biscayne, will be able to go ahead with a $50 million expansion plan. The vote will come next week at the same time as the US presidential election.

Even though public money will not be involved in the self-financed initiative, the plan still needs public approval since the facility is run by the city under a trust arrangement.

The ballot makes it clear that no money would come from taxpayers, with the project paid by the tournaments and other private sources. The measure needs a stiff two-thirds majority to pass..

Naysayers insist that if the initiative is not approved, it could lead to an eventual relocation of the tournament from its Key Biscayne island venue. Supporters say the event generates millions locally in hotel bookings and other tourism spending, not mention exposure on television in 180 countries.

The park venue got its last facelift in 1994 and is fraying around the edges.

The improvement plans would include more green space to replace hot asphalt around the grounds, more shade and extra landscaping. Seats will also be upgraded, according to supporters.

©Daily Tennis News Wire

Topics: Key Biscayne tennis news, Miami Masters, Sports, Tennis Facilities, Tennis News