May 9, 2005 --

My position on the West Side stadium, which grew out of my enthusiastic advocacy for the city's bid to host the 2012 Olympic Games, has never changed ("Rangel Wrinkle," May 4).

Before the stadium was an issue, I supported the city's efforts to stage the Olympics. I still do.

When a stadium became a prerequisite to host the Games and a West Side location was the only alternative, I accepted the stadium as the only hope to attract the Games.

The Olympics will showcase New York and generate thousands of jobs, housing, infrastructure improvements and millions of dollars in revenues. Stadium advocates project up to 20,000 full-time and construction jobs.

I've been assured that no public funds will be diverted for the stadium. I've consulted with community and civic leaders, and considered the problems raised by opponents of the stadium.

This is a sensitive issue which I wish the city could resolve by finding a universally acceptable location.

Meanwhile, I will do everything I can to ensure that the community's concerns are addressed by city and state officials.

We're on the threshold of a boom in construction and jobs.

If a new stadium can help get us there, so be it.

Rep. Charles Rangel