Article:Astrodome may be saved from wrecking ball

The 8th wonder of the world may well escape the wrath of the wrecking ball, despite the desires of some. It seems that the Astrodome, the former home of "Love Ya Blue," the Houston Astros and the greatest college basketball game ever played between UCLA and Houston, may be getting a facelift. If that's the case, then the grand old girl won't be rubble after all.

The Astrodome Redevelopement Corporation wants to convert the ballpark into a convention center and hotel. That would mean revenue not only for the city of Houston but for Harris County as well. The group lost rights to redevelop the property last month but things could change. If they were to get the green light today, things could proceed as soon as possible. I say that this is a good thing, given our current economy. The hotel would be near Reliant Stadium, which means that there would be hotel jobs.

As usual, there is a fly in the ointment. Harris County Ed Emmett wants to look into this thing further. Personally, this might work. The proposed fate of the Astrodome is a hell of a lot better than the fate of other ballparks that have bitten the dust, so to speak.

The Astros no longer play there. As much as I would love to see them play a game there, it's not possible. Minute Maid's a little better but not as much fun. At the same time, there is hope. Hope springs eternal.