In the category of breaking news at inopportune time goes to the arbitrators overseeing the CVC/St. Louis Rams. Thanks. (Not really.)

The arbitrators have sided with the St. Louis Rams saying that the Edward Jones Dome does need vast improvements to comply with the league’s definition of a first-tier facility.

From Greg Smith, the Husch Blackwell attorney representing the CVC via the St. Louis Business Journal report:

The arbitrators determined that due to several structural deficiencies in the size and dimensions of the Edward Jones Dome that only the Rams’ May 2012 plan for demolishing and rebuilding the facility will make it First Tier under the terms of the existing lease between the parties.

The CVC proposed a $200 million renovation package. The Rams submitted a nearly $700 million remodel option which on paper looks like a great idea except for the fact that they didn’t outline where the $700 million would come from.

The current Edward Jones Dome (Courtesy STLouisRams.com)

Of course the Rams are stoked.

Here is the official word from the team via Rams Executive Vice President of Football Operations and Chief Operatin Officer Kevin Demoff:

The St. Louis Rams are pleased with the Arbitrators’ First-Tier award. The independent decision acknowledges that significant improvements are required to put the Edward Jones Dome on equal standing with most National Football League stadiums and to enhance the fan experience. The Rams are hopeful that the Convention and Visitors’ Commission will implement the arbitrators’ decision and work toward achieving First-Tier status by the March 1, 2015 measuring date as set forth in the parties’ lease.

The CVC has 30 days to decide whether they will accept the Rams’ offer. If the CVC decides that’s too rich for their blood the Rams will on a year-to-year contract after the 2014-2015 season.

In the meantime, the two sides will do the expected back and forth with demands and counter demands until (hopefully) a compromise is made and the Rams stay in St. Louis. 

More details to come next week.

See the full report below:

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