A stadium for more than baseball
The Tampa Bay Rays have unveiled new renderings for a stadium they hope will become a year‑round hub for the region, extending its purpose beyond baseball to concerts, graduations and other sporting events.
The envisioned 100‑plus‑acre development would combine retail outlets, office space and a reimagined campus for Hillsborough College, creating a mixed‑use environment that officials say could generate thousands of jobs and stimulate local businesses.
Funding for the venture totals $976 million, with $796 million earmarked from Hillsborough County and $180 million from the city, a financial plan that has already secured key approvals from county commissioners and the college’s Board of Trustees.
Team principal Ken Babby emphasized that the project reflects a commitment to the community, noting that the stadium’s design is intended to serve as a catalyst for economic growth while providing a modern venue for the Rays and a broader array of events.
If the timeline holds, the facility could be ready for the 2029 season, marking a significant milestone for both the franchise and the Tampa Bay region.