May 6, 2007

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) -Plans under consideration for a new stadium in Omaha may leave Rosenblatt Stadium without baseball fans.

Mayor Mike Fahey is considering a proposal to build a $50 million ballpark in the area near the Qwest Center Omaha and Creighton University, just north of downtown. The stadium could become the new home of the College World Series, replacing 59-year-old Rosenblatt.

Rosenblatt, near Henry Doorly Zoo in south Omaha, has been home to the series since 1950. The NCAA has an agreement with the city through 2010.

Fahey and others would like to keep the 10-day series in Omaha at least through 2020.

In addition to the College World Series, Rosenblatt is home to the Omaha Royals minor league baseball team. The Creighton University baseball team also plays many games there.

Plans for a new stadium arose as an alternative to improving Rosenblatt and the surrounding area at a cost of $25 million. The proposed stadium would seat 9,000 fans, but could expand to hold 25,000.

Rosenblatt holds 23,100.

Fahey has ruled out the idea of operating two city stadiums, meaning Rosenblatt would be demolished if a new stadium is built.

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Information from: Omaha World-Herald, http://www.omaha.com