Rays pledge to fund at least half the cost of new Tampa stadium amid Hillsborough funding talks

The Tampa Bay Rays say they will cover a minimum of 50% of a new Hillsborough County ballpark’s construction costs (including overruns and ongoing maintenance) in exchange for public funding that could cover up to 50% from sources like tourism taxes, hotel taxes, a Community Investment Tax, a nearby development district, and other local fees; the planned stadium near Hillsborough College on Dale Mabry could cost about $2.3 billion, with terms not yet finalized and a county meeting scheduled to discuss a term sheet. The Rays would bear all financial risk and guarantees, with potential state involvement to be determined.