Professional men's and women's soccer may soon come to California's Central Valley
MODESTO — Professional soccer may soon be coming to Modesto as the city council voted Tuesday night to approve entering negotiations with the United Soccer League to discuss an expansion.
The city and the USL will explore the potential of bringing both a men's and women's soccer team in addition to a multi-purpose stadium to Modesto.
During the negotiation period, the city said it will explore whether or not the city can support professional soccer teams as well as how the city can expand its entertainment opportunities, the City of Modesto said in a news release following the vote.
Those discussions will also include details like funding as well as possible designs and locations for the stadium that, subject to USL stadium requirements, would have a minimum of 5,000 seats with the ability to expand up to 10,000.
"I am always cheering for our city," Modesto Mayor Sue Zwahlen said. "Whether you're a soccer fan, an athlete, a sports spectator, or someone looking for a local event to take your family to, we're excited for this opportunity to score a goal with the USL and give residents something to cheer for too."
The city said it will be hosting a community briefing with the USL at Modesto City Hall at 9:30 a.m. on September 12.