St. Pete City Council Set for Final Vote on Rays’ Stadium Proposal

The St. Pete City Council is preparing for a pivotal vote Thursday morning on the future of the Tampa Bay Rays’ new stadium and the redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District in the city.

After nearly a year of discussions and modifications, council members are set to decide whether the ballpark will be constructed. While the team is optimistic about the deal, opinions in St. Pete are divided.

The proposal includes a $1.3 billion stadium and the development of 86 acres surrounding it, amounting to over $6 billion. This development plan features housing, retail spaces, restaurants, and an African American History Museum.

Initially, there was some hesitation, but the local chapter of the NAACP and other groups have expressed their support for the project.

“All over this country, our history is frequently erased,” stated African American Heritage Association President Gwendolyn Reese. “That will not happen here. With the redevelopment project, our stories will be included throughout the redevelopment.”

The St. Pete Tenants’ Union has opposed the plan, arguing that it fails to address the city’s public housing needs. Many of their members are expected to voice their concerns during the public comment session at Thursday’s meeting.

“We are worried about the displacement of impoverished communities and the disenfranchised,” said St. Pete resident Amy Isel. “I love the Rays, but I fear the locals will bear the cost.”

Despite the likelihood of the plan passing the city council, some members remain critical.

“What didn’t change was the amount of money allocated for a stadium,” said District 8 Councilman Richie Floyd. “It’s still hundreds of millions of dollars benefiting a privately owned corporation, and that’s where my issue lies.”

The council’s vote will take place during their 11 a.m. meeting. However, the final decision rests with the Pinellas County Commission, which is expected to vote on the deal in the coming weeks.

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