Jul 27, 2007, 15:40 GMT
Orlando, FL - The Orange County Commission approved a $1.1 billion project to build a new arena, a performing arts center and a renovated Citrus Bowl in downtown Orlando.
The commission approved the public building program by a 5-2 vote. The Orlando City Council gave its approval on Monday with a 6-1 vote.
'We are happy that we were able to reach an agreement that is a great step forward for our organization, downtown Orlando, and all of Orange County,' said team owner Rich DeVos and team president Bob Vander Weide in a joint statement.
The new arena, which will be operated by the city of Orlando, is scheduled to open in September 2010 and will be home to the NBA's Orlando Magic.
'It's a great day for Central Florida. History will look back on this day in the same light as the day that Walt Disney announced he was building his theme park in Orlando,' said Magic chief operating office Alex Martins. 'I would like to thank Mayor Rich Crotty and Mayor Buddy Dyer, as well as both the County and City Commissions for their vision and leadership. I would also like to thank the Walt Disney World Company, Universal Studios, Seaworld, and the Central Florida Hotel and Lodging Association, as well as the entire Orlando business community for their active participation in ensuring this positive outcome for new downtown sports and entertainment facilities for the people who call Central Florida home.'
The Magic have played at the Amway Arena since their inaugural season in 1989. The arena, originally called Orlando Arena, was best known as TD Waterhouse Center for the past seven years.
The Magic and Orlando mayor Buddy Dyer first came to an agreement on a new arena last September.
© 2007 The Sports Network
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