St. Petersburg's governing body initially greenlights, but ultimately denies funding for Tropicana Field renovations

Shortly after initially approving a proposition to allocate $23 million for the restoration of the Tampa Bay Rays' stadium, the St. Petersburg City Council rejected the proposal on Thursday.

This decision was made over a month after Hurricane Milton caused severe damage to Tropicana Field's roof and resulted in extensive water damage. The city has estimated that the repairs will cost $55.7 million.

The Rays have already arranged to play their home games at the New York Yankees' 11,000-seat spring training stadium, Steinbrenner Field, in Tampa for the upcoming season. However, according to city documents, the renovations to Tropicana Field will not be completed in time for the 2026 season, leaving the team's long-term plans uncertain.

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In addition, the council voted 5-2 to postpone voting on a proposal to use bond financing to assist in funding the Rays' proposed new $1.3 billion ballpark.

St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch remains hopeful about the construction of a new stadium, but is not willing to use more public funds to complete the project.

"We are confident that there is still a way forward," he stated in a written release. "My administration is prepared to present a revised plan to the City Council for their consideration. However, I want to make it clear that this plan will not involve any additional funds from the City."

The Rays, who are contractually obligated to play at Tropicana Field for three more seasons, have been based in Tampa Bay since their inaugural season in 1998.