Rays Release Renderings of New Stadium Design

ST PETERSBUG — This week, the Tampa Bay Rays released renderings of the design for their new baseball stadium, which will serve as the centerpiece for the redevelopment of St. Pete's Historic Gas Plant district.

Highlights include an "indoor/outdoor" experience, closer, more intimate seating, an open concourse from which the game can be viewed while grabbing refreshments, and surrounding mixed-use development that will provide a unique entertainment district in the area surrounding the stadium.

The team ultimately decided to go with a much less expensive fixed roof rather than a retractable one, likely having learned lessons from the Miami Marlins, whose retractable roof is rarely used because of Florida's unpredictable summer weather, despite major planning that had to be done in the seating layout for heat and sun considerations.

The new stadium will be the only indoor facility in the U.S. used exclusively for baseball. Large windows in the outfield, some of which can open when weather permits, will allow fans to see out onto the new Second Ave South, eliminating the "warehouse" feel of the Trop which incorporates no natural lighting.

The stadium capacity will max out at about 30,000 seats. There will be fewer luxury suites with a larger variety of other "premium experiences."

Fans who prefer to move around, socialize, and enjoy the stadium's food and beverage offerings will also have an option for standing-room admissions. Concerts and other events are also planned for the facility.