Michigan Senate OKs bill to help build new Red Wings arena

The Michigan Senate has approved legislation to help finance a downtown project that would include a new home for the Detroit Red Wings.

Team owner Mike Ilitch this week announced plans for a $650 million multiuse development, which would include an events center where NHL hockey could be played. He has said for years he'd like a new arena for the Red Wings, who now play at the aging Joe Louis Arena.

Read more: Ilitch's $650M development proposal is more than new arena

A bill approved by the Senate on Wednesday would allow use of tax dollars collected by the city's Downtown Development Authority for the project.

Senate Democratic leader Gretchen Whitmer criticizes the measure, saying it would take money away from Detroit schools to help pay for a billionaire's project. But Republican leader Randy Richardville says it would create jobs.

Read more: Ilitch's downtown Detroit plan could be long process

_{Construction of Joe Louis Arena was completed in 1979. The construction cost $57 million. The city of Detroit owns the arena while Olympia Entertainment operates it.}