It all sounds so exciting.
There is a plan being developed to transform the Pickelner Arena on the YMCA grounds into a multi-sport, all-purpose indoor facility with seating for 3,500 people.
The arena would be used for professional, college and high school hockey, ice skating competitions and public skating, as well as musical concerts and special events.
The $3 million project would provide a fresh addition to the city's entertainment portfolio that we believe would be a popular place to be for area residents and families.
But as strong as the idea is, Peter Rich, who has financial expertise in developing arenas and was at last week's informational session regarding the idea, concedes that, "most of the time, these arenas can become a boondoggle for cities.
That can't happen in Williamsport. The city already operates with a budget that contains next to no wiggle room.
An organization has begun soliciting $500,000 in capital funds with a deadline in July. That money needs to be raised privately.
Then there is the matter of operations of the facility.
Don Kirnan, commissioner of the Federal Hockey League headquartered in Dewitt, N.Y., spoke of the vision of paying bills and bringing the facility in at no cost to the city.
That's what has to happen.
The idea is exciting.
But it can't be another bill that the city is paying.
