Additional Coverage:
- City reverses $23M decision to fix Tropicana Field for Rays (newsbreak.com)
St. Petersburg City Council Backtracks on Tropicana Field Roof Repairs
The St. Petersburg City Council initially approved $23 million in repairs for the hurricane-damaged Tropicana Field, but later reversed its decision. The delay came after the council postponed consideration of revenue bonds for a proposed $1.3 billion new stadium for the Tampa Bay Rays.
The Rays warned that the lack of progress could jeopardize the new stadium and Tropicana Field’s future. The ballpark’s translucent roof was severely damaged during Hurricane Milton, requiring extensive repairs estimated at $55.7 million.
The initial vote approved funding for the roof repair, but the reversal means the city and Rays must find an alternative solution to prepare Tropicana Field for the 2026 season. The city is legally obligated to fix the roof.
Some council members raised concerns about the cost and uncertainty surrounding the repairs, while others emphasized the city’s contractual obligation. The council is now reviewing its options, including determining what portion of the costs might be covered by insurance or FEMA.
The new Rays ballpark is part of a larger redevelopment project in the Historic Gas Plant District, a predominantly Black neighborhood that was displaced to build Tropicana Field. The project includes plans for a Black history museum, affordable housing, and other amenities.
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- City reverses $23M decision to fix Tropicana Field for Rays (newsbreak.com)