There is no justification for any official surprise regarding the proximity of the planned downtown arena to the Kansas Department of Corrections’ work-release center: The center opened at Emporia and Waterman in 1990, long before the arena project was proposed and, as of last week, sited kitty-corner to it. The arrangement isn’t ideal, but moving the center now would be costly and politically difficult — as is all siting of correctional facilities. With the right design, especially regarding the arena’s entrance, surely the 250-bed center and the 15,000-seat arena can peacefully co-exist. The pressure is on planners to make it work for both the attraction’s success and the public’s safety.
Posted by Rhonda Holman
11 Comments
There is also a bank right next the the work release center. Also with the WMTA being right around the corner, it is a perfect spot for the center.
People there are trying to rebuild their lives and are getting a second chance. Non-violent offenders, so don’t feel uncomfortable that it is there.
Oh, what’s a few muggers and rapists to a truly dedicated sports fan!
Jed! They are actually on the field playing the sport.
What is the big deal? Are there currently any problems with the work release center? Have people in the area been accosted? Have there been verifiable problems with low risk people trying to rebuild their lives?
Again, the argument of “proximity” arises, one that I just don’t see. The “sin” of having an adult store visible to a church; sex offenders living less than 2500 feet from a school, etc. Proximity does not equate to behavior.
Much ado about nothing.
Is it feasible for the work-release people to work at the arena?
I agree with the thought that the businesses that surround the facilty now co-exist with it, so what’s the problem?
Joe,I know! I’ve lived in neighborhoods where, if I really wanted to see one bunch of guys beat the crap out of another bunch, all I had to do was step out on my porch. Didn’t need an arena and I could microwave my own popcorn, thank you!
Actually Jed I was commenting about Professional Sport players that tend to break the law by raping, mugging, fighting, drugs, and you name it.
Yeah, and on the field, too!
I’ve had the pleasure of providing transportation for a resident of the work-release to/from work. You have nothing to worry about, folks. I worry more about the menatal stability of those who think there would be problems. These are the same bleeding hearts that on any other day would complain that there are too many incarcerated.
ID,Yes, you’re probably right!
get a life ya’ll.