whatever your opinions are on public financing for stadiums or building new stadiums in general, i think it's worth noting that there has not been a new stadium built in the 5 boroughs since Madison Square Garden in 1968.

New York City has the oldest stadium in the NBA. (every team save the nets, knicks and warriors plays in a brand-new or very recent stadium)

New York City has the oldest stadium in the NHL. (every team save the isles, devils, rangers, oilers and flames play in a brand-new stadium)

New York City (metro area) has one of the oldest stadiums in the NFL. (the other old stadiums in miami, oakland and san fran have all been renovated)

New York City has the third oldest park in the National League (only Dodger and Wrigley are older)

Every other major city in Canada and the U.S. save NYC has built a new stadium since around 1990, most built two or more. (chicago 3, boston 2, seattle 3, cleveland 3, miami 2, toronto 2, los angeles 2, anaheim 2, houston 3, philadelphia 3, cincinnati 2, st. louis 3, detroit 2)

Major global cities like london, paris, barcelona, tokyo and munich have all built massive new stadiums.

Moreover, you could make the argument that every stadium in the metropolitan area is a depressing dump.

oh, except for the gleaming new $42 million Carl Ichahn Stadium on Randall's Island built for all those track and field meets that happen all the time and draw so many people.

i forgot the new Arthur Ashe stadium, which is an eyesore and is used for for 14 days a year and the 2 single-a ballparks, which are nice but quaint.