Breakthroughs in the Tampa Bay Rays stadium saga have emerged, according to a new report from Marc Topkin and Colleen Wright of the Tampa Bay Times. On Tuesday, St. Petersburg City Council members received an assessment report confirming that Tropicana Field can be repaired in time for the 2026 season, with estimated repairs totalling $55.7 million. The stadium, the Rays home since their inaugural season in 1998, suffered extensive damage from Hurricane Milton, including significant roof destruction.
The report estimates that Hurricane Milton caused $39 million in damage and incurred $16 million in additional costs, although it does not account for all necessary repairs. The most costly item to replace will be the roof, which amounts to $23.6 million for the bill. The big question is whether the city will want to spend that much money for a variety of reasons.
As the city weighs its options, several factors will influence the decision on how to proceed with the repairs.
Tropicana Field Can be Fixed for Rays 2026 Season
Topkin and Wright point out two key factors that cast uncertainty over the Tropicana Field repair plans. St. Petersburg faces a crucial decision: will it invest $55.7 million in Tropicana Field renovations? The Rays’ impending departure complicates the issue. The team has secured a new stadium deal, set to open in 2028, ending their Tropicana Field tenure in two seasons. Additionally, the extent of insurance coverage for the $55 million repair bill remains unclear, further complicating the financial landscape.
As for possible insurance coverage, the Times notes the following:
“The city is the landlord and responsible for repairs to the stadium, and already filed an insurance claim. They city policy includes a $22 million deductible and $25 miilion for the coverage. That was reduced in March from $100 million so the city could save $275,000 in premium payments.”
The reduced insurance coverage and significant deductible raise questions about the city’s financial exposure in repairing Tropicana Field. The $22 million deductible represents nearly 40% of the estimated $55.7 million repair costs. This means the city must allocate substantial funds upfront. Additionally, the $25 million insurance coverage will only partially cover the remaining costs, leaving the city liable for any excess expenses. As the city council deliberates, they must consider the financial implications of investing in a stadium with a limited lifespan.
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