The much-anticipated deal to build a new stadium for the Tampa Bay Rays in St. Petersburg is officially dead. Mayor Kenneth T. Welch confirmed that although the termination of the agreements by Rays ownership is disappointing, it was not entirely unexpected. However, he made it clear that the setback will not derail the city’s broader vision for redeveloping the Historic Gas Plant District (HGPD).
A major setback, but not the end
Mayor Welch expressed gratitude to the St. Petersburg City Council, Pinellas County Commission, city staff, and community partners for their dedication to the project. While the Rays’ decision halts plans for a new stadium, it does not mark the end of the city’s commitment to the HGPD.
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“We will move forward on the equitable economic development of the HGPD, honoring the 40-year-old promise of inclusive economic development on this historic land,” Welch stated, emphasizing the city’s dedication to its long-standing pledges to the African-American community and other community-driven priorities.
Rays ownership cites unexpected events
Tampa Bay Rays principal owner Stuart Sternberg acknowledged the difficult decision, citing unforeseen circumstances that arose in October.
“After careful deliberation, we have concluded we cannot move forward with a new ballpark and development project at this moment,” Sternberg said, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to eventually finding a ballpark solution that benefits the team, Major League Baseball, and the Tampa Bay region.
What’s next for the ‘Burg
Despite the failed deal, the city remains committed to its current obligations, including repairing Tropicana Field for the 2026 season under the existing use agreement. Welch left open the possibility of future baseball in St. Pete, stressing that any future partnership must align with the city’s values and community priorities.
“If in the coming months a new owner, who demonstrates a commitment to honoring their agreements and our community priorities, emerges, we will consider a partnership to keep baseball in St. Pete,” he said. “But we will not put our city’s progress on hold as we await a collaborative and community-focused baseball partner.”
The future of the Tampa Bay Rays
With no immediate plans for a new stadium in St. Pete, the Rays will play the 2025 season at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. Meanwhile, the city will pursue a phased approach to redeveloping the HGPD, ensuring that the land is used for housing, jobs, and economic development as originally envisioned decades ago.
While the Rays’ long-term future in St. Pete remains uncertain, one thing is clear: the city of St. Petersburg will continue moving forward—transforming its historic assets and forging a path of progress, with or without Major League Baseball in its future.
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