What would Little Rock look like without War Memorial Stadium?
A recent study determined $17 million dollars in maintenance and improvements are needed for the facility to remain useful.
Some people, like Little Rock Vice Mayor Kathy Webb, think the stadium should be converted to mixed use park space. But Mayor Mark Stodola thinks improvements could be a worthy investment.
"Certainly, I think this city needs a stadium,” said Stodola.
"I think it's good for the area,” added Mark Brooks with Jimmy’s Serious Sandwiches, a business of 35 years located right across the street from the stadium.
According to a recent study requested by state Parks and Tourism, Conventions Sport and Leisure International has determined that War Memorial Stadium needs 34 improvements.
“It's a graceful lady,” said Stodola.
According to the study, the 70-year-old facility would require changes needed in the next three years and the remainder within the next five years.
“The study that was conducted suggests that there are a lot of uses, in addition to football, that can be played there. Soccer, other youth sports, outdoor track and concerts,” Stodola said.
He agreed the stadium has aged, but said that doesn't change its history or determine its future contributions if improved.
"I know there's some suggestions about commercialization and all sorts of residential options that I think are in the wrong direction completely,” he said.
"I think there's an opportunity with UA Little Rock to have a football team and for that to be its stadium. But that's another study being conducted right now and we'll see the results of that when it comes out,” Stodola added.
Some people in the community think the facility is underused, while others want to see it go.
"$17 million, actually I can see it costing that much. But I do think it'll be worth it also,” said Brooks.
Webb, who shared her thoughts on Twitter, thinks "War Memorial can be our city Central Park". Some people agreed with the idea but not all.
"I'm not sure, if you tear it down, if I were to be in favor of that I'd have to know what it'll be replaced with, more specific detail. I haven't seen a plan for that yet,” Brad Ahrens said, also with Jimmy’s Serious Sandwiches.
Webb credits a study by Think Big Little Rock, that spent more than a year looking at ways to improve city activities for young people and families, for confirming to her that the space is attractive for destination activities.