Full Breakdown
Florida Cabinet Approves Land for Tampa Bay Rays Stadium Proposal
2/26/2026, 12:53:35 AM
Overview of the Stadium Proposal
Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet have officially designated 22 acres at Hillsborough College as part of discussions for a new stadium location for the Tampa Bay Rays. This proposal involves the use of approximately 113 acres of the Dale Mabry Campus, which is currently under the management of Hillsborough College. The initiative aims to create a mixed-use development alongside the stadium.
Key Details of the Plan
The approved plan includes utilizing 22 acres of non-conservation land at Hillsborough College, which is expected to provide greater public benefits than retaining the land in state ownership. The proposal highlights that a significant portion of the land is currently used for parking, presenting an opportunity for campus reconfiguration. The Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund, comprising DeSantis and Cabinet members Attorney General James Uthmeier, Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia, and Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, will oversee the management of the land.
The plan mandates that Hillsborough College update its campus master plan within one year to accommodate both educational and Major League Baseball functions. Additionally, the college is required to collaborate with the Rays on necessary applications and permits, with state agencies directed to expedite the review process for all related submissions.
Historical Context
The land in question has been owned by the state since its acquisition from the U.S. government in 1947. It has been leased to Hillsborough College and other state agencies since 1968. The Rays, who have been seeking a new stadium for over a decade, currently play at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, which has faced challenges, including damage from a hurricane in 2024.
Financial Considerations
DeSantis has indicated that Hillsborough College could reallocate funds from deferred maintenance projects to support the stadium deal, suggesting a shift in financial priorities. During a press conference with MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, DeSantis expressed a preference for investing in the revitalization of the campus rather than repairing older buildings. The proposed budget from the Florida Senate includes $50 million to assist the college in relocating facilities for the stadium, although this funding is not reflected in the House spending plan.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the support for the stadium proposal, there are concerns regarding the use of public funds for professional sports facilities. In 2022, DeSantis vetoed a $35 million earmark for a new spring-training facility for the Rays, citing that tax dollars should not be used for professional stadiums. This stance reflects ongoing debates about the appropriateness of public investment in sports infrastructure.
What's Next
The next steps involve Hillsborough College updating its campus master plan and working closely with the Rays and state agencies to navigate the permitting process. The success of this proposal will depend on collaboration between the college, the Rays ownership, and local government entities in Tampa and Hillsborough County.
