Tampa Bay Rays release renderings of proposed new stadium

quote:

---

Rays CEO Ken Babby discussed the renderings during Wednesday night’s Rays game against the New York Yankees.

"We’re releasing the first set of renderings of the new ballpark as we continue our process forward [and] as we work on definitive documents, [we are] excited to share this new ballpark with our fans," Babby said.

The renderings show a fixed-roof ballpark designed to feel open and bright, with sky views from inside the stadium. The Rays say the design includes about 30,000 fixed seats, with the ability to expand for concerts, conventions and other major events.

The plans also include two large video scoreboards, club spaces near both bullpens, a bar overlooking center field, a retractable batter’s eye and a larger, deeper Rays Touch Tank.

Babby said the roof is one of the features the team is most excited about.

"You’re going to feel like you’re outside with all the comforts and climate controls of being indoors," Babby said during the broadcast.

The primary entrance would sit beyond center field, creating a plaza-style gateway into the ballpark.

---

quote:

---

The Rays say the broader district would include residential, educational, retail, hospitality, commercial and community spaces. The team says an independent economic analysis projects the development would generate $55.5 billion in total economic impact over 35 years, support 11,900 permanent jobs and attract about 10 million visitors a year.

---

quote:

---

The Rays say design elements could still change as the team works with Tampa and Hillsborough County leaders toward a final funding agreement.

Babby said during the broadcast that the team met with city and county leaders earlier Wednesday and continues to work on the final documents.

The non-binding framework moved the project forward, but final legal and financial documents still need approval.

---