Paulson Again Clarifies Statements In Beaverton

Two months ago, Timbers/Beavers owner Merritt Paulson confused Portland officials when he told Beaverton pols this, according to The Oregonian:

"[I]f I don't get a baseball deal done, I'm not going to finalize the deal with Portland. So MLS will not come to Portland unless I do a deal for a new baseball park."

Paulson — who has since withdrawn his baseball stadium proposal in Beaverton— on Dec. 11 clarified his position in a letter [PDF] to Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish.

"We are currently working on some issues related to the design application," adds Paulson. But he still expects to begin construction in February of the remodel of Portland's PGE Park for Major League Soccer, the letter says.