Tribe's arena proposal in offing

The Muckleshoot Tribe is expected to come out with a proposal Wednesday or at least a letter indicating its interest in pursuing the building of a Sonics basketball arena on property adjacent to Emerald Downs racetrack in Auburn.

Two sources told the Seattle P-I of the tribe's decision to move forward on the project, although apparently there has been no contact with Sonics owner Clay Bennett since an initial meeting in February.

Muckleshoot spokesman Rollin Fatland declined comment, other than to say he might have something more to share on Wednesday.

The Muckleshoot Tribal Council began looking into the Sonics situation about six weeks ago after Bennett's efforts to get a publicly financed facility in Renton bogged down in the Legislature.

The Muckleshoots own 185 acres off state Route 167 that includes Emerald Downs and have suggested there is room and parking opportunities for a multipurpose arena west of the track.

The tribe already has built the White River Amphitheater, an outdoor concert venue, as well as the Muckleshoot Casino, both located on state Route 164 east of Auburn.

Many questions would need to be answered before a Sonics solution seems realistic, however, including Bennett's interest in locating his team 24 miles south of downtown Seattle, as well as the considerable issues of funding and traffic.