Rays Confirm Commitment to New Stadium Plans in St. Petersburg

The Tampa Bay Rays have decided to continue with their plans for a new stadium in downtown St. Petersburg, thereby securing their involvement in a significant $6. 7 billion redevelopment project. In a recent letter to Pinellas County Commission Chair Kathleen Peters, the Rays confirmed that the previously approved agreements for a new $1. 37 billion ballpark are still valid.

President Matt Silverman raised concerns about the influence of the new commission on the project's timeline and viability, stating that they would not have proceeded if they believed the deal could be canceled. Peters expressed optimism about the project's potential economic benefits for the county, despite the Rays' earlier assertions that the deal was dead due to delays and financial challenges. This ongoing situation illustrates the complex negotiations between the Rays, the city of St. Petersburg, and Pinellas County, with the team facing the risk of losing crucial development rights on 65 acres of prime land if they were to terminate the agreements. The future of the Historic Gas Plant District is closely tied to these negotiations and the cooperation of all involved parties.