HARTFORD -- It appears cautious optimism has replaced the back-and-forth between the Hartford Stadium Authority and the developers of Hartford's Dunkin' Donuts Park.
"We actually had a very productive meeting," said Jason Rudnick, of DoNo Hartford, LLC., the stadium developer. "Everybody including ourselves and the city is committed to finishing the stadium."
The stakeholders met at a closed door meeting Thursday afternoon at Hartford City Hall. HSA officials, the developers and ARCH insurance, the developer's insurance company, were all mum as to the specifics discussed.
"We want this stadium to open as quickly as possible," said Luke Bronin, mayor of Hartford. "To that end, we need to make sure conversations like the one that took place today continue and that we continue to have good and productive discussions with stakeholders at the table."
The tone was very different last Thursday afternoon when the HSA convened a special meeting to "call the bond," a term meaning the city can try to file a damages claim against DoNo Hartford LLC, and its construction company, Centerplan.
The HSA unanimously decided to file a claim with ARCH Insurance for the value of the stadium. The passage of the resolution is also a symbolic vote of no-confidence in the developer's ability to get the job done. That put the responsibility on the insurance company to keep the developer on track, and handle any cost overruns.
The insurance company could still decide to halt construction if they believe the project needs an overhaul, or if the city's claim merits an investigation.
Bronin said last week Hartford received no money from any fines or damages as the claims to fines are currently being disputed. The mayor asserted he does not want to part ways with DoNo Hartford or Centerplan, he just wants the ballpark finished.
Rudnick described the ballpark as being "95 percent completed," with paint and other minor tasks needing attention.
When asked about when the Goats' season could start, the developer didn't give a date on completion.
"Ultimately that's a question you're going to have to ask the Yard Goats themselves," said Rudnick. "I only know we'll be completing the stadium. Whether they play there or not is a decision they'll make with Eastern League baseball, presumably."
