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Preservationists reach fundraising deadline for sparing part of Tiger Stadium, but need more

By Associated Press

11:25 PM EDT, October 10, 2008

DETROIT (AP) _ What remains of Tiger Stadium will remain standing at least until March 1 while preservationists raise money to renovate the stadium and reopen it as a recreational and educational complex.

The Detroit Economic Growth Corp. says the Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy presented it with a $69,000 check Friday and provided proof of a $150,000 escrow account. The money will cover the cost of demolishing the entire stadium if it becomes necessary, plus security and maintenance at the stadium for the next five months.

The Conservancy has until March 1 to raise $15 million for the project itself, which involves converting a dugout-to-dugout portion of the stadium into a restaurant, banquet facilities and office space while preserving the playing field for amateur use.