The Tampa Bay Rays released initial renderings Thursday of a proposed new ballpark and mixed-use district at Hillsborough College’s Dale Mabry campus.
The images land one day after Hillsborough County commissioners voted 7-0 to continue talks with the team and authorize staff to begin the next phase of technical review.
“I’m incredibly grateful for what our organization and the Tampa community have accomplished in just over 100 days since acquiring the team, and of the progress we are making together toward a Forever Home for the Rays and our loyal fans,” said Patrick Zalupski, managing partner of the Tampa Bay Rays.
“Hillsborough County’s unanimous vote is a significant milestone and a clear signal that Tampa is serious about keeping Major League Baseball in this region and transforming Tampa Bay for generations to come,” Zalupski said.
The plan centers on Hillsborough College’s campus
The Rays’ preferred site is the 113-acre Hillsborough College Dale Mabry campus, a state-owned property west of Dale Mabry Highway in the City of Tampa.
The Hillsborough College Board of Trustees has approved a memorandum of understanding with the Rays to redevelop the campus as part of a new ballpark district.
The Rays said the partnership is designed to improve campus facilities and expand workforce development, curriculum and internship opportunities for more than 45,000 students.
Funding and cost questions remain open
The Rays have indicated they intend to fund at least 50% of ballpark construction costs, according to Hillsborough County briefing materials released earlier this week.
County officials have said no general revenue funding is being considered.
The Rays have discussed a preliminary ballpark cost in the $2.3 billion range, according to county officials.
Community sessions planned next
Rays CEO Ken Babby said the team will hold community engagement sessions across Hillsborough County in the coming weeks.
“Our community can be assured, however, that we want the ballpark and district design to reflect the voices of the people who live, work, study, and operate businesses here,” Babby said.
Dates, times and locations have not been announced.
What fans can do now?
The Rays said fans can make a $19.98 deposit at NewBallpark.RaysBaseball.com for early access to seating in the proposed new ballpark.
