A recent detailed assessment of the hurricane damage inflicted on Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, has determined that the stadium is structurally sound and can be repaired for an estimated cost of $55.7 million in time for the 2026 season. The report, released by the City of St. Petersburg, indicated that the basic structure of the domed stadium remains intact despite significant damage to its fabric roof caused by Hurricane Milton.
The assessment, conducted by Hennessy Construction Services, found that while 18 out of 24 fabric panels of the ballpark failed during the hurricane, the primary structure is deemed serviceable and capable of supporting a replacement tension membrane fabric roof. The damage also extended to interior parts of the stadium due to rainwater and other storm-related causes.
Tropicana Field, commonly known as the Trop, has been the home of the Tampa Bay Rays since 1998. Although plans were already in place to demolish the stadium upon completion of a new $1.3 billion ballpark for the 2028 season, the unforeseen repair costs following Hurricane Milton may impact these plans.
The St. Petersburg City Council is set to discuss the assessment report at its upcoming meeting on November 21. The council recently approved $6.5 million for cleanup and protective measures at the ballpark to prevent further damage.
While the city has insurance coverage for the repairs, a substantial deductible of $22 million may result in taxpayer funds being utilized to cover the remaining costs. St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch expressed confidence that insurance and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funds will help offset the repair expenses.
The Tampa Bay Rays are currently exploring alternative venues for the upcoming season as Tropicana Field undergoes repairs. Major League Baseball is keen on keeping the team in the vicinity of their fanbase, with various spring training sites in the Tampa Bay area being considered as temporary options.
One potential solution could involve delaying the construction of the new ballpark by a year to accommodate the repairs at Tropicana Field. The new Rays ballpark is part of a larger $6.5 billion project known as the Historic Gas Plant District, which aims to include affordable housing, a Black history museum, retail spaces, and dining establishments.
The City of St. Petersburg is committed to fulfilling its obligations to ensure the Rays can continue playing in the city while progressing with the redevelopment plans for the Historic Gas Plant District and the construction of the new stadium.
