( Hamilton County ) - As the clock ticks on a decision by Major League Soccer on bringing a new team into the league, it spoke with county leaders and the heads of FC Cincinnati on Monday.
Hamilton County Commissioners have said they believe Paul Brown Stadium is a viable option if FC Cincinnati wants a larger venue. Commissioners also said that they'd be willing to build a parking garage to support a privately-financed stadium that FC has said it's willing to build. FC has said one of MLS's requirements is to have a soccer-specific stadium. Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley recently outlined his proposal to provide infrastructure support for a private stadium proposed in Oakley.
A statement from FC Cincinnati President Jeff Berding late Monday afternoon says FC was pleased to host an hour-long conference call where the parties spoke at length. It says the call "specifically vetted Paul Brown Stadium as it relates to the fan experience, the operational infrastructure as well as the economics to all parties." Berding goes on to say that MLS explained to Hamilton County Commission President Todd Portune "why a soccer-specific stadium is a key to a team's viability... and therefore is viewed as a priority if FC Cincinnati is to win a bid."
The statement doesn't specifically say if the county has given up it's wish to have FC play at PBS, but Berding closes by saying "we look forward to working with Hamilton County in the next few days as the Commission seeks to support our bid, which includes our commitment to privately fund a new soccer-specific stadium."