St. Petersburg Approves $22.5 Million Roof Repair for Tropicana Field

The St. Petersburg City Council voted 7-1 to approve a $22.5 million budget for replacing the roof of Tropicana Field, which was damaged by Hurricane Milton. The new roof, made of teflon-coated fiberglass, is expected to be completed in time for the Tampa Bay Rays' return to the stadium for the 2026 season. The city is contractually obligated to restore the stadium to playable condition, and the total cost of repairs is estimated at $55.7 million. Council members expressed concerns about spending on the stadium amidst community needs but acknowledged their legal responsibilities. The Rays are currently playing temporarily at George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, with their lease at Tropicana Field extending through 2028 once repairs are completed. Discussions about a new stadium deal remain unresolved, raising questions about the team's long-term future in St. Petersburg.