Florida Governor Supports New Tampa Bay Rays Stadium Proposal

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, alongside Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred, has expressed strong support for a proposed new stadium for the Tampa Bay Rays at the Hillsborough Community College (HCC) Dale Mabry campus. This initiative aims to secure the franchise's long-term presence in the Tampa Bay area, particularly following significant damage to their current home, Tropicana Field, from Hurricane Milton in 2024. The Rays are currently under lease at Tropicana Field until at least 2028, but the future of the team has been uncertain due to past redevelopment failures and ownership changes.

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The proposed stadium would be part of a larger mixed-use development that includes retail, hospitality, and residential components, designed to attract visitors beyond game days. DeSantis emphasized that the state would support the project through land conveyance rather than direct funding for the stadium itself. The Rays ownership group, led by CEO Ken Babby, has committed to covering at least 50% of the construction costs, estimated at $2.3 billion, with the remainder potentially sourced from local funding mechanisms such as tourist development taxes and community redevelopment funds.

Gov. Ron DeSantis pledges state support for Rays stadium at Hillsborough College site

The project is projected to generate over $34 billion in economic impact, with significant benefits for HCC, including enhanced workforce development and educational opportunities. HCC President Ken Atwater described the initiative as a "game-changing opportunity" for the college, which aims to integrate its facilities into the new development while maintaining a campus presence.

Gov. DeSantis steps up to the plate on Rays’ stadium talks with Hillsborough College

DeSantis stated, “Baseball belongs in Tampa Bay. Baseball can succeed in Tampa Bay,” reinforcing the importance of the sport to the region. Manfred echoed this sentiment, highlighting the necessity of a strong partnership among the team, local government, and the community for the franchise's success. He noted, “The key to the economic success of most franchises is a partnership between the community, the local government, and the team.”

Gov. Ron DeSantis pledges state support for Rays stadium at Hillsborough College site

Despite the enthusiasm from state officials, concerns remain regarding the funding structure. Hillsborough County Commissioner Harry Cohen has indicated that local taxpayers should not bear the financial burden of the stadium's construction. The Hillsborough Board of County Commissioners has ruled out using general revenue funds for the project, leaving the specifics of public financing uncertain.

DeSantis says Florida supports plan for Rays stadium at HCC: 'Baseball belongs in Tampa Bay'

The Hillsborough County Commission is set to discuss the stadium proposal in an upcoming meeting, where potential funding options will be evaluated. The Rays plan to release renderings of the proposed development soon and will hold community meetings to gather public feedback. The timeline for the stadium's completion remains unclear, but the team is aiming for a new ballpark to be operational by 2029.

Gov. Ron DeSantis pledges state support for Rays stadium at Hillsborough College site

• “Baseball belongs in Tampa Bay. Baseball can succeed in Tampa Bay.” — Ron DeSantis, Governor of Florida

Rays stadium at Hillsborough College? DeSantis, MLB commissioner throw support behind team's ownership

• “This partnership truly is the definition of a game-changing opportunity for the college,” — Ken Atwater, President of Hillsborough Community College

Gov. Ron DeSantis pledges state support for Rays stadium at Hillsborough College site

• “The key to the economic success of most franchises is a partnership between the community, the local government, and the team.” — Rob Manfred, MLB Commissioner

Gov. Ron DeSantis pledges state support for Rays stadium at Hillsborough College site

• “This is about building a stronger Tampa, stronger region by reinvesting back in the community and rejuvenating a college.” — Ken Babby, CEO of the Tampa Bay Rays

Gov. Ron DeSantis pledges state support for Rays stadium at Hillsborough College site