BaseballBiz On Deck

Approved - New Rays Stadium, St. Pete Council says YES 5 to 3

BaseballBiz On Deck with TampaBay.com columnist Colleen Wright Episode 246

Colleen Wright journalist of TampaBay.com discusses St. Pete Council approval of new Tampa Bay Rays stadium & the long journey to get there

  • Council Votes & Reactions
  • Recent council decisions were expected, with minor changes to environmental & sustainability language 
  • The council vote went as expected, with a 5-3 split 
  • Strengthened language in the contract aimed to ensure implementation of standards, not just aspirations
  • Mat watched the council meeting & acknowledged the valid concerns raised 
  • Contract Language & Concerns
  • Tweaks were made to tighten the deal, particularly concerning the resale of publicly owned land 
  • Concerns about "Rays or Hines affiliates" receiving property without clear definitions 
  • Council member, pushed for clearer contract terms & transparency 
  • Development Timeline
  • Stadium completion targeted by 2028 
  • 300 affordable housing units are expected by 2030
  • Full development build-out will span 30 years 
  • The stadium will remain county-owned, with the Rays controlling broadcasting, naming rights, concessions, & ticket revenues 
  • Discussion on the financial benefits for Rays' owner, Stu Sternberg, including the potential increase in team valuation with the new stadium 
  • Community Impact & Long-Term Vision
  • The deal has mixed reactions, with some community members & groups wanting a more equitable deal 
  • Concerns over future enforceability of contract terms 
  • Importance of written contracts for ensuring commitments are met over time 
  • The development will include a fresh food market, though its completion is not legally required until 2045 
  • The project is subject to various permits & zoning changes, with groundbreaking expected in 2025 
  • The importance of timely development to avoid losing the Rays as a key part of the project 
  • The project is expected to significantly impact the area, with phased developments over 30 years 
  • Continued scrutiny & clear contractual terms are crucial for the project's success & community satisfaction 
  • Kudos to Colleen Wright & St Pete Times team for their coverage of the Rays
  • Stu Sternberg’s longstanding commitment to St. Pete 

Thanks to Mat Germain for bringing his knowledge, wit and wisdom to the show. You can catch more of Mat on Twitter x.com @Mat_Germain_   
 Mark can be found on Twitter x.com  @TheBaseballBiz & and at  http://www.baseballbizondeck.com
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