Rays Share New Interior Renderings For Proposed Tampa Bay Ballpark

TAMPA, FL — The Tampa Bay Rays released five interior renderings of the team’s proposed “Forever Home” ballpark, offering fans a first look at design features of the proposed Tampa project, according to a news release from the team.

The proposed ballpark is part of a larger mixed-use neighborhood development anchored by a reimagined Hillsborough College Dale Mabry Campus, where the stadium would be located, with a planned opening of 2029.

The colorful renderings show a general seating bowl designed to keep fans close to the field from every location in the ballpark.

The images also highlight club spaces at a range of price points, club areas next to both bullpens, sky views throughout the stadium, a bar overlooking center field above a retractable batter’s eye, and two video scoreboards that the Rays said would rank among the largest and most technologically advanced in Major League Baseball.

The Rays said the primary plaza entrance would be at center field and would serve as the main gateway into the ballpark.
The proposal also brings back the Rays Touch Tank, which the team described as a larger and deeper aquarium feature that would house rays in the new stadium.

“Ballpark design is always in motion, but we felt it was time to pause and share with our fans where we are today and anticipate going in the future,” CEO Ken Babby said. “What we are unveiling … is a response to what Rays fans have told us they want — a comfortable and inviting ballpark that honors the intimate connection between fans and the game, while at the same time incorporating modern amenities and design innovations that they expect and deserve. We’re listening and working hard to deliver on what we feel will be the best ballpark experience in the game, bar none.”

Dynamic lighting systems are planned for night games, while expansive sky views and views of the surrounding mixed-use development are intended to create an open feeling, the team said.

The ballpark is planned with about 30,000 fixed seats that can expand for special events, including concerts, conventions and other large gatherings.

The Rays also said outfield dimensions and other game- and player-related elements remain under review.

Design details will continue to evolve as the team works with elected officials and staff from the city of Tampa and Hillsborough County toward a funding agreement.