Tampa Bay Rays New Owners Prioritize Keeping Team in Tampa Bay with New Ballpark Plans

New Ownership's Top Priority

• 🎯 The new owners of the Tampa Bay Rays have publicly stated their number one goal is to keep the team in the Tampa Bay area.
• 🔑 This commitment is seen as crucial for securing the Rays' long-term future in the region.

Vision for a New Ballpark and Development

• 🏟️ A major objective is to have a brand new ballpark ready for the Rays by 2029.
• 🏗️ The ballpark is envisioned as the anchor for a best-in-class mixed-use development of at least 100 acres, including hotels, offices, retail, restaurants, bars, and a music venue.

Site Selection and Local Reactions

• 🗺️ Owners are evaluating multiple locations on both sides of the bay, emphasizing the need for a minimum of 100 acres for development.
• ⚠️ The current Tropicana Field site in the historic gas plant district is only 86 acres, presenting a challenge for expansion.
• 💬 St. Pete Mayor Ken Welch is open to a new deal but is also moving forward with development plans for other parcels, not waiting indefinitely.

Community Concerns and Economic Perspectives

• 💰 Some community groups, like Home Runs Matter, have previously argued against significant public investment in stadiums, suggesting funds should address more urgent issues such as flooding and affordable housing in St. Petersburg.
• 📈 Local business owners, like Mark Ferguson of Ferg Sports Bar and Grill, believe community support and increased attendance are vital to making the team successful in St. Pete.

Immediate Focus

• ⚾ In the interim, the owners are focused on preparing the team to play at Tropicana Field next spring.