Arizona Governor Signs $500M Funding Bill for Chase Field Renovations

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs signed House Bill 2704, which allocates up to $500 million in taxpayer dollars, potentially exceeding $1 billion with inflation adjustments, to fund renovations at Chase Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks. The bill redirects sales taxes paid at the stadium and nearby businesses, as well as income taxes from players, to finance infrastructure upgrades such as air conditioning, the retractable roof, and seating improvements, while prohibiting spending on luxury amenities. The Diamondbacks will also contribute $250 million toward the renovations and have committed to remain in Phoenix through at least 2050, with penalties imposed if they leave earlier. The legislation, passed with bipartisan support, aims to keep the team in Arizona, support local businesses, and create good-paying jobs amid ongoing debates about the use of public funds for a billionaire-owned sports franchise. Team CEO Derrick Hall expressed gratitude for the bill, highlighting plans for immediate repairs and major fan experience enhancements over the next two years. This funding mechanism resembles that used by the Arizona Cardinals and follows similar public financing efforts seen in other MLB cities, such as Las Vegas for the Oakland A's relocation.