The Tampa Bay Rays have reaffirmed their commitment to constructing a new stadium in downtown St. Petersburg, a key component of the $6. 7 billion redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District. In a letter to Pinellas County Commission Chairperson Kathleen Peters, the team clarified that previously approved agreements for a new $1. 37 billion ballpark remain in effect.

This announcement follows concerns about the project's viability due to delays and complications, including damage from Hurricane Milton. Rays President Matt Silverman criticized the current county commission for potentially jeopardizing the project and emphasized that the team would not proceed if approvals could be revoked. Peters remains hopeful about the long-term economic impact of the project, despite the Rays' earlier claims that the deal is 'dead. ' The ongoing stalemate highlights the necessity for collaboration between the team and local government to ensure the project's success, with the future of the redevelopment hinging on both parties navigating their agreements effectively.