The cost to restore Tropicana Field, accommodating the Tampa Bay Rays for the 2026 MLB season, is estimated at approximately $55.7 million (£43.8 million/€52.6 million), according to an extensive report assessing Hurricane Milton’s devastating impact on the facility.
Last month, Hurricane Milton wreaked havoc on Tropicana Field, critically damaging the structure by tearing away significant sections of the stadium’s roof. An extensive Facility Damage Assessment and Remediation Recommendation Report, commissioned by St. Petersburg’s city officials and produced by Hennessy Construction Services, has confirmed that the primary roof framework remains structurally intact despite the storm’s intense winds. However, 18 out of the 24 fibreglass fabric roof panels were forcefully displaced.
The report estimates damage costs from Hurricane Milton to be around $39 million, coupled with an additional $16 million covering related expenses, including design, permitting, insurance, inspection, staffing, and construction contingencies. Notably, the replacement of the roof is projected to be the most significant expense, alone amounting to approximately $23.6 million.
“Overall, the stadium appears structurally sound and would be a viable candidate to continue to serve the City (should they so decide) in providing continued service following hurricane damage repairs,” the assessment concluded, indicating a cautious optimism regarding the venue’s future.
A preliminary timeline included in the report suggests that the repair effort will likely span about 13 months, aiming for completion by March 2026. City officials intend to review the findings of the report during a scheduled meeting on November 21.
In response to Hurricane Milton, the St. Petersburg City Council has greenlit the allocation of $6.4 million in contracts for initial repair work to Tropicana Field, forming part of the comprehensive $55.7 million budget. These contracts focus on immediate mitigation tasks aimed at establishing a temporary drainage system and waterproofing vulnerable areas, including the facility’s electrical infrastructure, offices, and concession stands.
This proactive initiative was driven by a desire to safeguard both the stadium and the City’s insurance claims, as work can be paused to minimize expenses, should the stadium be classified as irreparable.
The repercussions of Milton have presented a significant conundrum for both the Rays and city officials regarding alternative venues for the team during the upcoming 2025 season. In July, the City Council gave the green light for the ambitious $6.5 billion Historic Gas Plant District Redevelopment scheme, which encompasses plans for a new $1.3 billion stadium specifically for the Rays.
Groundbreaking on the new stadium is anticipated to begin in January, prompting the City to find ways to circumvent the substantial costs associated with major renovations to Tropicana Field, given that a modern ballpark is already in the developmental pipeline to be completed by 2028.
St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch remarked in a statement on Tuesday, “We believe having our hometown team play in St. Petersburg as soon as possible is important for our community. The City plans to meet its obligations to ensure that the Rays can play in St. Pete, and the redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District and the construction of a new stadium move forward.”
“As such, the City is implementing repairs to Tropicana Field with the hope that it will be ready for play for the 2026 season. We anticipate that the majority of the repair costs incurred by the City will be covered by insurance and FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) reimbursements, making this approach both beneficial for community spirit and fiscally responsible for our community.”
Rays president Matt Silverman remarked, “We’ll continue to have discussions with the City about how to move forward.”
**Interview with John Anderson, Director of Hennessy Construction Services: Assessing the Future of Tropicana Field Post-Hurricane Milton**
*Editor:* Thank you for joining us today, John. With the recent assessment completed on Tropicana Field following Hurricane Milton, what were the primary findings that stood out to you in the report?
*John Anderson:* Thank you for having me. One of the reassuring findings was that the primary roof framework of Tropicana Field remained structurally intact despite the severe wind impact from Hurricane Milton. This is a significant factor that underscores the potential for a successful restoration. However, the report did highlight that 18 out of the 24 fiberglass roof panels were displaced, which will be a major focus of our restoration efforts.
*Editor:* The estimated costs to restore the stadium are quite substantial, pegged at around $55.7 million. Can you break down what these costs will encompass?
*John Anderson:* Certainly. The $55.7 million estimate includes around $39 million directly associated with the storm damage, along with an additional $16 million to cover auxiliary expenses like design, permitting, and construction contingencies. The roof replacement itself is expected to be the most significant cost, projected at approximately $23.6 million. The allocation of funds is vital for ensuring that we can not only repair but also enhance the facility moving forward.
*Editor:* The preliminary timeline indicates that repairs could extend for about 13 months, aiming for completion by March 2026. Is that schedule realistic, and what steps do you see as critical to staying on track?
*John Anderson:* Yes, that timeline is realistic provided we have the necessary resources and support from the city. Critical steps include the immediate mitigation tasks we’ve started, such as establishing a temporary drainage system and addressing waterproofing issues. Once those initial efforts are underway, we’ll move into detailed design and planning, followed by the actual construction. Our goal is to ensure that we can meet the timeline while maintaining the safety and quality of the work.
*Editor:* You mentioned that the City Council has already approved $6.4 million for initial repair work. How important is this early funding in terms of the larger restoration plan?
*John Anderson:* The early funding is crucial. It allows us to start immediate repair tasks that can help prevent further damage, especially with winter approaching. These early steps not only lay the groundwork for the bigger restorative work ahead but also provide assurance to the community and stakeholders that we are taking proactive measures to protect the venue.
*Editor:* in light of the report’s overall findings, what is your optimism for the future of Tropicana Field, especially in anticipation of the 2026 MLB season?
*John Anderson:* I am cautiously optimistic. The conclusion of our assessment indicates that the stadium can continue to serve the city effectively after repairs. With a proactive approach to both the restoration and enhancement of the facility, we’re looking forward to seeing Tropicana Field not only bouncing back but also improving its ability to withstand future challenges.
*Editor:* Thank you for your insights, John. It sounds like there’s a lot of hard work ahead, but also a promising future for Tropicana Field.
*John Anderson:* Absolutely. Thank you for the opportunity to share our findings and plans.
