Instead, the site was chosen for the NWSL team's training facility.
Council members and residents learned of the change only at an April 6 hearing.
"That's probably the hardest part to stomach," said Kegg, community director of the Nordecke supporters' group. "Taking away something like that from that community doesn't feel good."
Mayor Andrew Ginther pledged a replacement park but did not specify a location.
The city council passed the financing plan on April 20, adding a last-minute amendment requiring the replacement park to be completed by the end of 2027.
The ownership group contributed $3 million and promised limited community access to the future training facility.
Council member Nancy Day-Achauer voted against the deal, saying, "I'm angry that we're even considering giving a public park to billionaires."
Fans Torn Between Excitement and Frustration
Despite the backlash, many fans plan to buy season tickets.
"I'm angry at the ownership group, but I want to go to the games," said women's soccer fan Alissa Friedman.
"It leaves a bit of a bad taste in my mouth."
Others see the public funding as a long-term investment.
An analysis commissioned by the investor group projected the team would generate $118 million for Ohio over 30 years through jobs, visitors, and taxes.
Crew season-ticket holder Stacey Kyser called it a necessary investment, while supporter Morgan Hughes criticized the use of public money to "lure billionaires who are already here."
The Nordecke released a statement urging the ownership group to embrace the NWSL's strong LGBTQ+ culture, noting the Haslams' donations to anti-LGBTQ+ politicians.
The group also plans to hold the city accountable for the replacement park. "If it doesn't materialize, that's something we should definitely make noise about," Kegg said.
NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman defended the public-private partnership, stating, "I can't think of anything more important or better evidence that the community wants the NWSL in Columbus."
