Phillies eye $205M overhaul, lease extension at spring training site

The Phillies have “plans to extend their lease” at their spring training complex, BayCare Ballpark in Clearwater, Fla., through 2047 with over $200M in ballpark upgrades, according to Emma Behrmann of the TAMPA BAY BUSINESS JOURNAL. The overhaul of the ballpark -- which has not been renovated since it was built in 2004 -- would focus on “expanded concourses, new fan amenities and player training facilities, costing around” $205M. A majority of county commissioners “expressed support for the use of tourist development tax dollars for the project.” The county could contribute $80M, or more, in tourist development tax dollars, and the team would contribute $75M and cover cost overruns. There is also a state grant of $20M, which is paid back to the city of Clearwater at $1M per year. The city’s contribution is “to be determined at a later city council meeting.” The existing agreement expires before the next spring training (TAMPA BAY BUSINESS JOURNAL, 4/2). In Tampa, Colbi Edmonds noted the $205M price tag is “a drop” from the $300M that officials floated in 2022. BayCare Ballpark is also home to the Phillies’ Single-A affiliate, the Clearwater Threshers. The team is “planning a number of renovations,” as part of the revamp, including “LED lighting, new fan amenities and flood mitigation” (TAMPA BAY TIMES, 4/2).