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St. Petersburg’s Expensive Renovation Project at Tropicana Field

Conceptual design for the St. Pete Common park, envisioned on the Tropicana Field site.

News Summary

St. Petersburg faces a significant challenge with the costly renovations of Tropicana Field, expected to exceed $56 million. Former mayor Rick Baker proposes transforming the site into a 30-acre park called ‘St. Pete Common’ to benefit the community. The city council’s funding and obligations, along with mixed community reactions, play a vital role in determining the future of this iconic location, as the Tampa Bay Rays temporarily relocate during the renovations.

St. Petersburg is grappling with a costly repair project at Tropicana Field, which has become a significant eyesore. As the city works to restore the facility, the cost of renovations is expected to soar into the millions. The challenge is further compounded by the absence of a definitive plan for the future of baseball in St. Petersburg, especially following a failed stadium deal with the Tampa Bay Rays.

Former mayor Rick Baker, who held office from 2001 to 2010, has put forth a development proposal that aims to reshape part of the 86-acre city-owned Tropicana Field site. His vision includes creating a 30-acre park dubbed “St. Pete Common,” designed to revitalize the Gas Plant District and enhance green space, contributing positively to the community’s quality of life. The conceptual design features a large circular walking path at the stadium’s location, drawing inspiration from Boston Common, which reflects a trend towards integrating urban parks into city landscapes.

Community Reactions and Concerns

Reactions from residents about Baker’s proposal are mixed. Some residents express hope that the Rays will continue to call St. Petersburg home, emphasizing the economic benefits for local businesses. Others view Baker’s park initiative as a prime opportunity to enhance community infrastructure and recreational spaces. Despite support for more parks, some community members have raised concerns regarding the need for additional green spaces when existing parks already serve the area.

Financial Implications of Repairs

The St. Petersburg City Council approved an allocation of $5 million for the ongoing repairs at Tropicana Field. This funding is part of an anticipated total expenditure of $56 million required for the complete refurbishment of the stadium. Among the critical repairs is the construction of a new roof, which is currently being fabricated overseas and is expected to be installed by August. Completion of the roof is essential before proceeding with other necessary upgrades, including turf repairs and enhancements to the audio/visual systems.

Obligations and Timeline

The City Council is under legal obligation to carry out repairs at Tropicana Field due to existing agreements with the Rays. This obligation has prompted frustration among council members concerning the financial implications of the renovation. City officials have acknowledged the potential risks posed by future storms, particularly during hurricane season, which may affect the timeline for repairs and the overall readiness of the stadium.

While Tropicana Field undergoes repairs, the Rays will temporarily play their home games at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa for the current season. The city is determined to have the venue ready for the Rays’ return by 2026, with the team’s lease at Tropicana Field set to expire in 2029.

Future Planning and Community Engagement

As the city navigates the future of the Tropicana Field site, community discussions are underway, revealing a strong desire for inclusive planning that aligns with the residents’ needs. Increased emphasis on improved infrastructure and diverse recreational opportunities is critical as the city looks to balance the interests of baseball fans, local businesses, and community advocates. The outcome of these discussions and the eventual fate of the Tropicana Field site will likely shape the landscape of St. Petersburg for years to come.