St. Pete is betting millions that Tropicana Field can be salvaged

Following Hurricane Milton's destruction of the roof at Tropicana Field, the St. Petersburg City Council has approved up to $6 million for emergency waterproofing measures. The funding will create a temporary drainage system and protect vulnerable areas of the stadium, including the electrical systems and concessions, in an effort to prevent further water damage. Council members expressed reluctance to allocate funds without a full understanding of the stadium's future, yet the urgency to mitigate risk was deemed critical for insurance purposes. Blaise Mazzola, the city's risk management expert, underscored the necessity of taking immediate action to protect property and ensure coverage under the insurance policy.

The waterproofing efforts are expected to take up to eight weeks, during which time the ultimate fate of the stadium will be determined. Despite the Rays' silence regarding their plans for the facility, the city remains hopeful that Tropicana Field can be salvaged. The decision reflects a broader concern for the stadium's viability, as additional rainfall could exacerbate existing damage. The council's actions highlight the intersection of local governance, sports infrastructure, and community investment.