By Katie Knapp
Omaha, NE – Omaha city officials, the Stadium Oversight Committee and NCAA are scheduled to meet next Tuesday. That meeting follows Monday's recommendation to build a new stadium at Qwest Center Lots C and E. Bob Williams, Managing Director of Media and Public Relations for the NCAA, says the organization never requested that Omaha build a new ballpark in order to secure a long-term deal for the College World Series. Williams says the NCAA simply relayed its requirements for a long term deal to the city.
The NCAA will continue its negotiations with Omaha through April 30, the date set to secure a new long-term agreement. Williams says the NCAA wants an agreement from Omaha that has broad-based community support. The Stadium Oversight Committee's plan to build a new stadium is drawing sharp criticism from MECA.