Wisconsin Governor: Deal for New Bucks Arena is ‘Close’

Although the Milwaukee Bucks are not advancing to the next round of the playoffs, they might have something else to look forward to.

Wisconsin governor Scott Walker stated that he believes a deal to pay for a new arena for the Bucks is "close." Walker joined in on the negotiations for the very first time on Thursday.

Walker commented on Friday, "I think we're close. But obviously we have to work out the last little bit of details."

Prior to the meeting, Walker stated that he hopes to agree on a deal in the "not too distant future."

The Mayor of Milwaukee, Tom Barrett, stated that everyone involved in the talks are trying to resolve the issues together. John Nygren, a Republican Sate Representative who chairs the Joint Finance Committee added that he felt all parties involved have moved a step closer to a deal.

The estimated cost for the project is $500 million. Back in January, Walker proposed a $220 million bonding plan to help fund the proposed plan.

The Republican governor stated that his only requirements related to the development of a new arena would be no tax increases and a net benefit to taxpayers within the state.