Tampa Bay Rays Release New Renderings of Forthcoming Ballpark
The Rays released five renderings of the interior of their proposed ballpark in Tampa on Wednesday night, giving fans a first glimpse inside the club’s “Forever Home.”
Rays chief executive officer Ken Babby unveiled the images during the fifth inning of the Rays.TV broadcast of Tampa Bay’s 3-0 win against the Yankees at Tropicana Field, highlighting several aspects of the design.
“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,” Babby said in a statement. “What we are unveiling today 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.”
Fayetteville Moves Forward With New Aquatics Center
The city of Fayetteville can now move forward with multiple city improvement projects after Fayetteville City Council approved an ordinance issuing bond funding Tuesday night. These projects include upgrades to wastewater treatment, parks and recreation, transportation, sustainability, fire facilities and the construction of a new aquatic center.
Fayetteville City Council approved $1 million for the aquatic center's design and stakeholder engagement process, which city leaders say will take place over the next year.
The city is now asking the Fayetteville School District to help fund the project after total costs exceeded the funding amount approved by voters.
Fayetteville voters approved $61 million in bond funding for the aquatic center in March, but city officials now estimate the project will cost more than $73 million.
Waterford Township Begins Construction on New Community Rec Center
Construction has begun on a new community center in Waterford Township.
In November 2024, voters approved a 21-year, $36.4 million bond to purchase 51 acres of land on OCC’s Highland campus at 7350 Cooley Lake Road.
Since then, Plante Moran Realpoint has been coordinating the project for the township. Neumann Smith architecture/engineering firm was hired and Frank Rewold was brought on as construction manager.
